Performance evaluation of an optically transparent microstrip patch antenna for 5G applications using ITO and sodalime glass substrate

Transparent antennas are one of the futuristic gadgets that can act as an asset to the expansion of Green technology. The unique characteristic of these antennas is that it is possible to integrate them with solar panel glasses without hampering their performance and also in window glasses without blocking sunlight. These features make them desirable for use in smart homes, vehicles, satellites, etc. for Wi-Fi and Radar systems. In this study, we proposed an optically transparent Microstrip Patch Antenna (MPA) to operate at the C band. The MPA is made of a Soda-lime glass substrate, with Indium Tin Oxide (ITO) in the patch and ground. It has a dimension of 24 x 31.5 mm2 and a gain of 1.247 dB at the resonating frequency (5.30 GHz). The proposed MPA (PMPA) has a modified ground plane which enhances the bandwidth to 990 MHz in (4.86 - 5.85) GHz range. This bandwidth is 6 times larger than a transparent MPA with a full ground plane. Finally, the proposed MPA (PMPA) has been fabricated and the return loss characteristic has been observed. The measured result supports that the antenna is suitable for 5G applications.