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Niksan, Omid

University of British Columbia

With advancements in space technology, intelligent wireless environments, and soft robotics, requirements such as enhanced manufacturing, mass-load reduction, and/or multi-functionality of a component have become prominent. This dissertation includes a series of experimental research conducted to demonstrate lightweight and multi-functional RF/microwave components utilizing an emerging family of nanomaterials, namely MXenes. First, the microwave resonance of freestanding Ti₃C₂Tx MXene films was demonstrated, leveraging the high electrical bulk conductivity. The performance is evaluated in humid conditions and the effects of MXene’s processing and treatment, including the effect of flake sizes, is investigated. The large-flake MXene films demonstrated higher electrical conductivity, higher resonance quality factor (150 and 35 for unloaded, and loaded factors), and less fluctuation in the performance ( 1.7% total shift in resonance frequency). Next, high-efficiency and lightweight additive manufactured microwave waveguiding components enabled by Ti₃C₂Tx MXene coating are shown. The waveguiding functionality was observed from 8-33 GHz, covering low earth orbit (LEO) frequencies, with a power handling up to 40 dBm and a transmission coefficient of 93% (0.05 dB/cm of loss). After only one dipcoating cycle, the coated waveguide performed 2.3% below an eight times heavier metallic equivalent (copper alloy). Finally, strain-enabled adjustable performance is shown by applying a pattern of Ti₃C₂Tx MXene on Kirigami-inspired prototypes operating in S, C, and X, (2-4 GHz, 4-8 GHz, and 8-12 GHz) frequency bands. Under applied quasi-axial stress, the Kirigami design allows for displacements of individual resonant elements, changing the overall electromagnetic performance. The frequency selective surface under stress, could steer a beam of scattered waves by as much as 25º, showcasing a proof of concept for flexible and mechanically reconfigurable microwave components. Employing MXene nanomaterial as a conductive element in RF/microwave components potentiates characteristics such as light weight, multi functionality, and relatively straightforward fabrication processes at room conditions. Our findings indicate a significant potential of the MXene nanomaterial for the development of RF/microwave components, for applications such as space explorations, where mass is at a premium and additive manufacturing is sought after.

Text

2025-04-02

Attribution-NonCommercial-NoDerivatives 4.0 International

http://hdl.handle.net/2429/88625

Electrical Engineering

University of British Columbia

UBCO

http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-nd/4.0/