Electromagnetic Penetration of Structures Considering High-Altitude Electromagnetic Pulse

The electric power system is undergoing transformation in the 21^st century. Generation is becoming more distributed, more electronic equipment is utilized for operation and control, and load demand is increasing with society’s electrification. As this transformation occurs, both new and old threats to the system’s resilience are of concern. Of the old threats, and a critical component when studying resilience, is high-altitude electromagnetic pulse (HEMP). In this thesis, weaponized electromagnetic pulse and its interaction with the power system is revisited with an emphasis on structure shielding effectiveness against both radiated and conducted energy. Computational electromagnetic plane wave simulations are carried out to analyze many variables associated with a structure’s shielding effectiveness. The variables fall into three main categories including radiation incidence, structure design characteristics, and cable coupling. As a result of this work, a structure’s attenuation behavior is identified as highly frequency dependent, especially for the electric field. Parameters associated with the incident radiation, which constitute a worst-case response are identified. A structure’s architecture is influential towards the building’s electromagnetic shielding effectiveness, especially when large apertures and reinforced concrete are present. Penetrating cables which couple electromagnetic energy are realized as a significant radiation infiltration pathway into a structure’s interior. Length of conductor, cableshields, and grounding are identified as the most influential variables regarding cable coupling. The results obtained serve as a collection of general observations which can be extended to more specific, detailed studies.