Sol-gel derived ceramic nanoparticles as an alternative material for microstrip patch antenna in WLAN applications

In the fast-evolving realm of communication technology, microstrip patch antennas (MPAs) are in high demand owing to their compact size, lightweight, inexpensive, ease of integration, and compatibility with modern electronic devices. This research focuses on the synthesis of ZnAl₂O₄Ca (ZAC) ceramic nanoparticles using an economical sol-gel method suitable for microstrip patch antenna applications. The structural analysis study of ZAC nanoparticles confirmed the polycrystalline nature with 8.1 nm of crystallite size whereas an investigation of functional groups showed the corresponding vibration modes. Morphological investigation revealed the spherical grains having their mean diameter of 12.32 nm. The dielectric property's examination, revealed the dielectric permittivity of 13, loss tangent of 0.02, and conductivity of 67 μΩ^-1 cm^-1. Furthermore, a prototype patch antenna fabricated using ZAC ceramics demonstrated a dual-band performance at frequencies 2.8 GHz and 4.8 GHz, with return losses of - 25.78 dB and - 28.5 dB, respectively. This work suggests the suitability of ZAC ceramic nanoparticles for use in WLAN applications.