High conductivity printing on polymer-ceramic composites

Many mobile structures (aircrafts, ships and automobiles) require conformal antennas for high data rate connectivity, which brings the need for material compatibility and for structurally reinforced antennas. The latter requirement is particularly challenging for small platforms since a large antenna is needed at these frequencies. For small unmanned air vehicles (UAVs) spanning a few feet, it is inevitable that the antennas be part of the structure. As the antennas become part of the structural airframe, there is a need for materials that concurrently serve the electrical and structural requirements. Among available materials, fibreglass, although suitable for load bearing applications, is not attractive for antennas due to its higher losses. Suitable materials are polymer-based mixtures because of their inherent low-loss properties, and mixing ease with ceramic and/or magnetic powders.