Sensors (Jul 2019)

Zirconia-Based Ultra-Thin Compact Flexible CPW-Fed Slot Antenna for IoT

  • María Elena de Cos Gómez,
  • Humberto Fernández Álvarez,
  • Blas Puerto Valcarce,
  • Cebrián García González,
  • John Olenick,
  • Fernando Las-Heras Andrés

DOI
https://doi.org/10.3390/s19143134
Journal volume & issue
Vol. 19, no. 14
p. 3134

Abstract

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An ultra-thin compact flexible CPW-fed slot monopole antenna suitable for the Internet of Things (IoT) applications was achieved as a result of exploring the use of Zirconia-based ENrG’s Thin E-Strate® for the antenna’s design. The electromagnetic characterization of the novel material at the frequency range of interest was analyzed. A comparison was made concerning the required dimensions and the simulation results regarding impedance matching and radiation properties, for three different dielectric substrates: Novel flexible ceramic (ENrG’s Thin E-Strate), rigid Arlon 25N, and flexible Polypropylene (PP). Two different metallization techniques—electrotextile-based and inkjet printing—were used in the fabrication of prototypes based on ENrG’s Thin E-Strate. Return losses measured results for the fabricated prototypes with both procedures was compared, as well as with simulation. The best prototype on the ENrG’s Thin E-Strate was compared with one on Arlon 25N, in terms of radiation properties in an anechoic chamber, and conclusions were drawn.

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