Fast algorithms for layered media

This paper gives an overview of computational electromagnetics for simulating complex structures with a large number of unknowns using integral equation method. First, it discusses the pros and cons of differential equation solvers versus integral equation solvers. Then it gives an overview of different fast algorithms for solving integral equations. It also discusses the difficulty of solving electromagnetic problems in the “twilight zone” between static and full-wave electromagnetics. Finally, it discusses various methods for fast solutions of scattering and coupling problems involving layered media both for statics and dynamic problems, and presents some numerical results. To cite this article: W.C. Chew et al., C. R. Physique 6 (2005).