High-Frequency Three-Dimensional Electromagnetic Modeling Using Vector Finite Elements

Abstract

We have developed a three-dimensional electromagnetic (EM) modeling algorithm using vector finite elements. Modeling of the EM field using the finite element method (FEM) has the problem of spurious solutions, the so-called `vector parasite', originating from the discontinuity of normal electric fields at boundaries. We use vector elements to eliminate this vector parasite problem seen in nodal formulations. To verify the developed 3-D EM modeling algorithm, we compare the results for a layered-earth model with the analytic solution. As expected, the vector based FEM model developed in this study does not have any vector parasite problem. We used a frequency of 100 MHz to test the applicability of our program to the simulation of high frequency EM surveys. Fields calculated for a model with a dielectric anomaly are well matched with the layered-earth ones. Finally we applied our algorithm to a model with a purely dielectric anomaly, and investigate the behavior of field through 3D vector plots.