A Liquid Metal 1-Bit Reflectarray for 90 GHz Application

A 1-bit reflectarray designed specifically for applications at 90 GHz is presented. The Unit Cell (UC) of the surface consists of two separated rectangular patches, one substrate and a Polydimethylsiloxane (PDMS) structure. Liquid Metal (LM) is employed as an effective RF switch connecting these patches. The PDMS is implemented to encapsulate and guide the movement of the LM. By manipulating the locomotion of the LM, the UC achieves a 1-bit reflection phase difference of 180$^{0}$. The reflectarray, therefore, is capable of beam steering. Its beams can steer in the range of 0$^{0}$ to 50$^{0}$, within 3 dB gain attenuation. The reflectarray leverages the unique properties of LM, enabling easy accessibility and low cost for millimeter-wave and Terahertz frequencies.