Flexible Textile Antennas for 5G Using Eco-Friendly Water-Based Solution and Scalable Printing Processes

Flexible textile antennas are important for wireless communication within the expansion of 5G and the Internet of Things (IoT), as it allows for their integration in daily life objects. However, achieving these functionalities in textiles is challenging because of limitations in the electronic performance, flexibility with scalable fabrication process. This paper presents two flexible textile antennas for wearable and non- wearable devices compatible with 5G technology created by printing highly conductive silver nanoparticle inks. Two textile substrates are explored, as the dielectric component, a 3D polyester, and a natural origin fabric, burel. The processes used are cost-effective and scalable, with the antennas designed to operate at 3-3.5 GHz, maintaining their return loss performance even under bending deformation and washing cycles. By transferring the optimized devices into clothes and wall covering, a detailed analysis with experimental measurements of the textile-based antenna for different operation scenarios is introduced. The work highlights the suitability of these antennas for wearable applications and their alignment with green wireless technologies, contributing to the advancement of sustainable wireless communication systems. This paper introduces two flexible textile antennas designed for both wearable and non- wearable 5G-compatible devices. Printed with cost-effective and scalable highly conductive silver nanoparticle water-based ink, these antennas maintain consistent return loss performance even during bending deformation and washing cycles. The study emphasizes their suitability for various applications, thereby contributing to the progress of sustainable wireless communication systems. image