A coordinate–spectral method for rough surface scattering

Abstract

In this paper, we deal with the time-harmonic scattering by one-dimensional rough surfaces separating two homogeneous and isotropic media. The method is based on a rigorous integral formalism. The unknown of the integral equation is projected onto a Fourier basis while the equation itself is sampled as in a classical method of moments. The accuracy is tested against both other methods and experimental results. One of the main interests in choosing a Fourier basis lies in the ability to solve rigorously the scattering of a p polarized incident beam by a shallow metallic rough surface. The role of the surface waves is accurately taken into account and phenomena such as enhanced backscattering are well described. With this method, one can consider that the gap between the domain of validity of perturbation theories and the domain of practical use of rigorous methods is filled.