Preparation and characterization of doped LiZn_0.92Cu_0.08PO₄ ceramic for microwave and millimeter-wave substrates

Abstract

Purpose

This paper aims to report on fabrication procedure and presents microstructure and dielectric behaviour of LiZn_0.92Cu_0.08PO₄ ceramic material with Li₂CO₃ as a sintering aid.

Design/methodology/approach

Substrates based on LiZn_0.92Cu_0.08PO₄ with Li₂CO₃ addition were prepared via solid-state synthesis, doping, milling, pressing and sintering. Characterization of the composition, microstructure and dielectric properties was performed using X-ray diffractometry, energy dispersive spectroscopy, scanning electron microscopy, impedance spectroscopy in the 100 Hz to 2 MHz range and time-domain spectroscopy in the 0.1–3 THz range.

Findings

Doped LiZnPO₄ ceramic, which exhibits a low dielectric constant of 5.9 at 1 THz and low sintering temperature of 800 °C, suitable for low temperature co-fired ceramics (LTCC) technology, was successfully prepared. However, further studies are needed to lower dielectric losses by optimising the doping level, synthesis and sintering conditions.

Originality/value

Search for new low dielectric constant materials applicable in LTCC technology and optimization of processing are essential tasks for developing modern microwave circuits. The dielectric characterization of doped LiZnPO₄ ceramic in the terahertz range, which was performed for the first time, is crucial for potential millimetre-wave applications of this substrate material.

Citation

Synkiewicz-Musialska, B., Szwagierczak, D., Kulawik, J. and Czerwińska, E. (2022), "Preparation and characterization of doped LiZn_0.92Cu_0.08PO₄ ceramic for microwave and millimeter-wave substrates", Microelectronics International, Vol. 39 No. 4, pp. 147-151. https://doi.org/10.1108/MI-07-2021-0068