Robustness Analysis of the Polymer-Conductive-Mesh Composite for the Realization of Transparent and Flexible Wearable Antennas

In this paper the morphology of the polydimethylsiloxane (PDMS)-flexible-conductive-mesh composite has been studied to evaluate its suitability in the realization of robust, flexible, transparent, wearable antennas that can withstand multiple bending operations. We have utilized conductive mesh made out of VeilShield from Less EMF which has about 70% light transmittance and is highly flexible. On the other hand, PDMS is a highly flexible and optically transparent polymer. Uncured PDMS is in liquid form and upon curing it transforms to a robust flexible substrate and forms a strong bonding with the conductive mesh, VeilShield. We have examined the composite through Scanning Electron Microscope (SEM) images during and after multiple bending operations. Later, we have designed a simple patch antenna operating at 2.45 GHz band using our selected materials. For performance evaluation the antenna is tested in both free space and under bent conditions and the results are presented in this paper.