A numerical analysis of wire antennas loaded with varistor-composite materials

The behavior of wire antennas loaded at the driving point with varistor-composite materials is analyzed in the time domain via a numerical formulation. Varistor-composite materials are nonlinear transient arresters with a subnanosecond response time. Connecting these nonlinear elements in parallel with the feeding transmission line and adjusting the characteristic curves of varistor materials (i.e., current density and dielectric constant versus electric-field strength), the nonlinear load drains off currents of excessive potential levels. At operating voltages the material presents a higher impedance path and the arrester interference with the normal operation of the antenna under protection is minimal.<
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