A 3D-Printed Subterahertz Metallic Surface-Wave Luneburg Lens Multibeam Antenna

Abstract

This letter presents an experimental realization of a sub-terahertz metallic gradient index (GRIN) lens multi-beam antenna operating at 355 GHz. The antenna is composed of a surface-wave Luneburg lens based on a bed of nails and a feeder array of nine WR-2.2 waveguides. The lens and the feeding structures are fabricated by the same high-precision 3D printing technique and are metalized using magnetron-sputtering gold coating. The antenna has been measured, showing good reflection coefficients below -12.5 dB at all ports and multiple independent beams covering a range of ±60°, which agree very well with the simulation. The measured gains are above 16 dBi and the scan loss is below 1.2 dB. This work demonstrates a novel manufacture and implementation approach for metallic multibeam lens antennas at sub-terahertz frequencies.

Application of Chemical Metallization of Photopolymer Structures Additive Technology in the Production of Components for Electronic Devices

“…Despite the successful application of the technology in the high-frequency range [19,20] (Section 3.1), the development of the technology requires further active participation in the creation of prototypes and their testing in view of the large number of nuances related to the surface geometry, alignment of parts of elements, error control, etc. Advancement into the higher frequency range (THz and above) [15,26] appears to be limited at the moment by the accuracy of 3D printing. However, this industry is rapidly evolving; the resolution of SLA printer matrices is increasing [17], and more complex MJP printing technologies [27] are also improving their characteristics.…”

“…In turn, the surface must have certain physical and mechanical properties that determine its joint use with the coating and have chemical properties that would allow it to be easily processed in the right solutions and/or on the necessary equipment. For open surfaces, magnetron sputtering is practically an ideal option for coating dielectrics [14,15]. However, it does not allow metallization of parts with complex external and, especially, internal surfaces.…”

A State-of-the-Art Review on 4D Printed Antennas and Other Adaptable Designs

“…Additionally, transmission lines, radiative structures like patches, and horn antennas can be created by metallizing 3D printed polymer substrates. Metallization techniques encompass various methods such as physical vapor deposition (PVD) [59], spray coating [32], aerosol jet printing [60], electroless plating and electroplating [61], and other similar processes. When employed, these techniques drastically enhance surface electrical conductivity and significantly improve radiation efficiency by reducing losses and enhancing matching.…”

Exploring Design Approaches for 3D Printed Antennas

“…The research paper [24] details the development of a multibeam antenna operating at 355 GHz, utilizing a subterahertz metallic gradient index lens. This antenna design incorporated a surface-wave Luneburg lens positioned on a bed of nails, along with a feeder array comprising nine WR-2.2 waveguides.…”