Improved area scaling of radio-frequency patch antenna by highly intercalated multilayer graphene/nickel hybrid structure

Abstract Using a novel hybrid conductor with intercalated multilayer graphene (I-MLG) and Ni, it was demonstrated that the area of a radio frequency patch antenna can be reduced by one-third. The area reduction was estimated from the resonant frequency shift of fabricated I-MLG/Ni patch antenna at around 18 GHz. Improved intercalation doping of MLG was realized by a novel split-CVD method for improved MLG crystallinity and uniformity and higher intercalation doping to MLG. With the process improvement, the sheet resistance of I-MLG layer was reduced and the current was expected to flow preferentially in the I-MLG layer by skin effect at high frequencies, and a kinetic inductance was expected by the current in the I-MLG layer. In addition, the Ni layer served as a magnetic core to enhance the magnetic inductance induced by the current. It is considered that the area reduction effect was obtained by the higher inductance density with the enhanced magnetic inductance and potentially with kinetic inductance.