Transparent RF Antenna Mesh With CNT Layer for 5G and EMI Shielding

The CNT ink is printed onto the metal mesh substrate before etching, serving as a pre-applied etch mask that defines the desired conductive pattern. This preliminary action of printing the CNT layer establishes the pattern geometry in advance, allowing the subsequent etching process to precisely remove only the exposed metal mesh regions while preserving the CNT-covered areas as the final conductive structure.

The CNT ink serves multiple functions: it acts as an etch mask during pattern creation, provides the final conductive pathway for RF signals, and maintains transparency for visible light. This multi-functionality eliminates the need for separate mask materials and conductive layer deposition steps, simplifying the overall manufacturing process while achieving high pattern precision.

The invention uses a composite structure combining CNTs with metal mesh (Cu, Al, or Ag) to achieve low sheet resistance while maintaining high transparency. The metal mesh provides the primary conductive pathway with low resistance, while the CNT layer enhances conductivity and provides etch mask functionality. This composite material approach achieves sheet resistance values suitable for RF antenna applications while preserving optical transparency.

The conductive material distribution is optimized locally: the metal mesh and CNTs are concentrated in the conductive pattern regions where low sheet resistance is critical for RF performance, while the surrounding transparent regions maintain high light transmission. This localized quality distribution allows the structure to meet both electrical and optical performance requirements in different spatial zones.