Diffuse Scattering

Technical Explanation

In classical cellular networks, walls were treated as smooth mirrors where radio waves reflected specularly (angle of reflection equals angle of incidence). In the Sub-THz band, wavelengths are less than 1 millimeter—comparable to the microscopic surface roughness of concrete, brick, and plaster. Waves scatter diffusely in all directions like light hitting chalk. 6G channel models incorporate Lambertian and directional diffuse scattering models to harvest scattered energy.

Key Functions

• Accurately modeling non-specular diffuse wave scattering off rough building surfaces
• Capturing diffuse energy contributions that prevent deep signal blackouts in shadow zones
• Modeling surface roughness parameters (standard deviation of surface height) at millimeter scales
• Enabling base stations to exploit diffuse wall scatter to reach obstructed receivers
• Standardized extensions to 3GPP TR 38.901 high-frequency propagation equations