Electromagnetic scattering problems utilizing a direct, parallel solver

Finite-element discretization of the vector wave equation is a common method of analyzing the electromagnetic field scattered by an object. One of the most challenging aspects of this research concerns the solution of the system of equations resulting from the finite-element analysis. Advanced solution algorithms have enabled researchers to generate more realistic computational models for scattering problems. The work presented here represents what is believed to be a unique parallel algorithm offering researchers a method of solving large, sparse systems of equations with advantages that are not found in previously published works.; This research uses a parallel sparse matrix decomposition algorithm to solve very large algebraic systems arising from the finite-element solution of electromagnetic scattering problems. This publication provides an overview of the scattering problem and how the direct, parallel algorithm offers an efficient method of solution.