RF characterization of flexible substrates for new conformable antenna systems

In this work, an electromagnetic characterization method using microstrip transmission lines to determine the dielectric properties of flexible substrates, such as papers or PET (Polyethylene Terephthalate), is proposed. Various metallization technologies (adhesive copper tape, screen printing, etched aluminum layer) have been tested to fabricate microwave circuits on these flexible substrates. Finally, patch antennas have been realized and measured to validate the experimental dielectric properties. The measured return loss is in good agreement with the simulation. This work is one first step further towards the development of new, green, low-cost, conformable printable antenna systems which may be sticken inside home-networking devices for wireless multimedia applications.