Abstract:
The evolution of mmWave and sub-mmWave technologies owes much to the development of
reconfigurable antennas, essential for meeting the dynamic demands of wireless communication,
satellite operations, and radar systems. From phased arrays to leaky waves and multi-beam
configurations, these antennas play a pivotal role in applications requiring advanced beam management
capabilities such as scanning, forming, and steering. This importance is underscored by the impending
rollout of 5G/6G networks, demanding unprecedented adaptability in frequency, radiation patterns, and
polarization to cater to the needs of next-generation wireless technologies.
The integration of electronically tunable materials for antenna reconfiguration emerges as a promising
frontier, enabling the manipulation of antenna properties by adjusting substrate characteristics.
Leveraging materials like liquid crystals, VO2, ferroelectrics, graphene, dielectric and magnetic fluids,
and metasurfaces facilitates dynamic shifts in dielectric constant, permittivity, and permeability. For
instance, liquid crystals afford dynamic shifts in dielectric constant through voltage modulation, while
ferrite materials offer the ability to modify permittivity and permeability with external fields.
Furthermore, metasurface antennas utilize physical manipulation to adjust effective permittivity,
enabling precise tuning of the resonant frequency.
The quest for frequency agility is furthered by materials such as barium-strontium-titanate (BST),
yttrium iron garnet (YIG), and innovative fluids, allowing for the electrical modulation of material
properties. These technological advancements are poised to significantly enhance the efficiency and
adaptability of antenna systems, heralding a new era of innovation in communication and sensing
technologies. They ensure that the infrastructure of tomorrow is equipped to meet the complex and
evolving demands of our digital world, facilitating seamless connectivity and enabling transformative
applications across various domains.