Development of novel engineered materials for applications at microwave and infrared frequencies
Date
2021
Authors
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Publisher
University of Delaware
Abstract
Advances in materials research and manufacturing techniques are rapidly allowing more complex and interesting functional electromagnetic applications to be brought to fruition. Electromagnetic application development within all frequency bands ranging from infrared to radio and microwave are of particular interest to academic, scientific research institutes, industry, and governmental entities alike. In this dissertation, I describe the development of novel engineered materials and devices for infrared and radio and microwave spectral utilization. The first topic includes the design, fabrication and characterization of intricate micro-particles for infrared obscuration applications in the short wave, 1 µm to 3 µm, and long wave, 8 µm to 12 µm, bands. The second topic to be covered encompasses spectrally tunable RF devices, within the L, S, and C bands, 1 GHz to 10 GHz. Specifically, the design, fabrication and characterization of antennas utilizing tunable conductivity electrochromic polymers. These advancements described throughout this dissertation were made possible through robust simulation software, innovative fabrication techniques, and precise characterization methods. The marriage of all the individual elements throughout this dissertation improves upon current technologies and has the potential to spur even further progress in the field.
Description
Keywords
Antenna, Infrared, Microsphere, Polymer, Silicon wafers, Sputtering, High density polyethylenes