Merck licriOn liquid crystal-based solution for smart antennas

Merck has announced the launch of licriOn, a liquid crystal-based solution for electronically beam-steered smart antennas. The technology uses custom-designed molecules with optimised microwave properties to enable an antenna that can improve modern data communication, with the ability to connect with stationary and moving satellites. The liquid crystal-based solution thus helps achieve extensive connectivity access, even in remote areas where fast internet connections are difficult to access.

High-performance antennas are an integral part of modern wireless communication systems. Higher frequencies often require antenna beam steering to enhance connection quality between transmitting and receiving stations. In some applications, such as satellite broadband with non-geostationary satellites, such antennas are indispensable. The beam of licriOn-based antennas can be electronically steered into the desired direction without physically realigning the antenna. This is achieved by combining an array of antenna elements with a thin layer of licriOn liquid crystal. The liquid crystals can be switched on a molecular level to allow powerful, precise and energy-efficient beam steering.

The smart antennas are designed to deliver high performance while being more compact and requiring little energy. They do not need to be maintained, repaired or replaced as frequently as their mechanical counterparts, the company claims. The smart antennas are flat and allow a modular design; they can therefore be easily integrated into ships, aeroplanes and other vehicles almost seamlessly.