A Reconfigurable Linear Terahertz Antenna Array with Embedded Magnetic Particles for 6G Communication

In this research work, the reconfigurability of a 1×4 linear Terahertz antenna array is obtained by embedding micron-sized magnetic particles in the antenna substrate for 6G communication systems operating at frequencies ranging from 100 GHz to 120 GHz. Initially, a compact sized patch antenna for 116 GHz is designed utilizing two substrates lower and upper (each with permittivity 3.14, thickness 100um, and tangent loss of 0.002). The lower substrate is drilled with cavities in both vertical and horizontal configurations. The cavities are partially filled with micron-sized magnetic particles (Silver contents 20% and size 25um). Activating the magnetic particles in cavities in horizontally or vertically configurations using a small magnet can reconfigure the antenna resonant frequency. It has been explored that activating the magnet particles in a horizontal configuration causes maximum shift in frequency in the Terahertz range (100–120) GHz. Furthermore, the results of compact single element with embedded magnetic particles in the lower substrate are validated with an equivalent circuit model using the Advanced Design System (ADS) circuit simulator. The proposed compact single element at 116 GHz is then converted to a linear 1×4 Terahertz antenna array. The proposed array has been reconfigured at 113 GHz and 102 GHz by activating the magnetic particles vertically and horizontally, respectively. The array accomplished reconfigurability without the need of RF switches (PIN, varactor diodes) or breaking the antenna dimensions. The array can be utilized for a variety of purposes, including the 6G communication system.