An antenna apparatus includes an electrically conductive section having peripheral edges, an antenna element coupled to the electrically conductive section, which transmits or receives electromagnetic signals, and an electromagnetic absorbing carbon material component. The carbon material component is generally disposed adjacent to the electrically conductive section, and includes a border region extending beyond the peripheral edges of the electrically conductive section. The carbon material component can be constructed of a carbon fiber fabric in which the carbon fibers are arranged to increase the effective signal to noise ratio of the antenna apparatus and enhance antenna performance without increasing the baseline power consumption level. The carbon fibers can be coated with silicone to insulate them externally while enhancing their lengthwise conductivity.