Miniature antenna based on magnetoelectric composites
The design and characterisation of a miniaturised 100 MHz antenna based on magnetoelectric (ME) composites are discussed. Ferrite–ferroelectric composites with high and equal permeability μr and permittivity ɛr have been synthesised and used as the substrate for a microstrip antenna. The composite also facilitates impedance matching to free space. A sample of nickel zinc ferrite and bismuth strontium titanate prepared by ceramic processing and with μr=ɛr has been used. Scattering parameter data indicates an antenna miniaturisation factor of 7–10 at 100 MHz, in agreement with theory.