Challenges with Optically Transparent Patch Antennas

In this paper, antennas made out of transparent conducting oxides (TCOs) are explored. The optical transparency of transparent conducting oxides is achieved through thin-film depositions on substrates. However, thin-film depositions create a new set of electrical challenges that require a full understanding of semiconductor physics. This work looks into the governing equations that limit light transmission, absorption, and reflection through a transparent conductor, along with the electrical conductivity and antenna efficiency of transparent-conducting-oxide thin-film patch antennas.