Time-Domain Analysis of the Impact of Advanced Building Construction Materials on the Propagation of Lightning Electromagnetic Field and Its Mitigation Using Nanoforging

The comprehension of the propagation characteristics of lightning electromagnetic field (LEMF) is essential to inspect the impact of nearby lightning strike and its coupling effect on different systems and equipment. Undeniably, the presence of building structures alters LEMF reaching any point of installation of critical equipment. In this regard, this article attempts a complete time-domain analysis of the influence of building structures on LEMF propagation at near and far striking distance. The influence of aperture location on structures with respect to the direction of LEMF propagation is quantified first ever. The LEMF penetration capability of novel constructional materials, namely carbon nanotube (CNT)-forged concrete and glass fiber-reinforced gypsum, is compared to that of concrete, and surface charge estimation methodology is adopted for the first time to quantify the plausible LEMF shielding performance. It is observed that the presence of apertures influences the LEMF distribution, but their location has inconsequential effect. Among the materials, CNT-forged concrete offers nearly 2 dB of electric field attenuation and 10 dB in energy penetration due to LEMF, quantifying the field mitigation effect due to nanoforging. Experimental study confirms better shielding performance of nanocompounded concrete. For magnetic field, the presence of apertures and the type of construction material do not deliver a sizable effect.