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Ceramics as an Enabling Material for the Future of Connectivity
Connectivity has become the zeitgeist of the 21st century. In a world undeniably governed by digital communication, the emergence of developing technologies to facilitate this global phenomenon continues to expand rapidly.
As most already know, fifth generation (5G) technology is being touted as the next step in the digital revolution. Companies are promising that the emergence of a fully functional 5G network will bring about significant transformations not only to the technology itself but to society as a whole; improving areas from manufacturing to health. Propelled by the Internet of things (IoT), 5G is looking set to become entrenched within day-to-day functioning, promising increased reliability and connectivity in response to the demand of such a service.
Where are we now?
A completed 5G network is yet to be rolled out. Despite ongoing progress in the area, there are still some developments which need to be made before a completed infrastructure is in place. In addition to pragmatic factors such as cost and standards providing challenges, the technical side of 5G also leaves scope for improvement.
One key hurdle which is yet to be overcome in 5G technology is facilitating high frequency bandwidth operating in the millimeter wave area, over 20 gigahertz. The higher the bandwidth, the faster the connection. Therefore, the requirement to extend RF bandwidth is an integral part in the advancement of this technological revolution.
Ceramics and 5G
Ceramics have long been used in communications thanks to their advanced electrical properties, being used in both base stations and antennas. According the Thermo Fisher Scientific, “Currently used in RF and microwave dielectrics for filters and resonator antennas, the dielectric properties of technical ceramics are ideal for high frequency transmissions where a low dielectric constant, low dissipation loss and temperature stabilities are essential material properties.” These key material characteristics are spurring research in 5G antenna networks for ceramic substrates and capacitators.
One promising piece of research exploring the benefits of ceramic materials for 5G applications has been published by Mike Hill, Technical Director at Skyworks, and his team. Mike will be speaking on this exciting topic at this year’s Ceramics Expo, and you can also read an exclusive interview with him here.
Looking towards the future, ceramic materials are looking set to play a pivotal role in 5G as efforts towards unrivalled connectivity continue.
If you want to find out more on the topic of 5G, join us at Ceramics Expo on August 31 – September 1 2021, in Cleveland OH. Here, you can listen to expert speakers from Skyworks, Ferro and Momentive Technologies discuss this subject, as well as a host of other leaders from the industry speaking on a number of exciting panels. You can register for the free-to-attend conference and exhibition here.
