Experimental Characterization of Nanofilm Microstrip Antennas

We report on the experimental characterization of microstrip antennas where the radiating patch is entirely composed of nanofilms-chromium, aluminum, titanium, or nickel (the first two 15 nm thick and the latter two 20 nm thick). The nanofilms are excited indirectly through an aperture coupled feeding mechanism. The aluminum patch structure is seen to behave as an antenna with outstanding radiation performance and shows an ultrawideband response. The results demonstrate the potential for these antennas for system-on-chip, space application, and other specialized applications.