Next-generation materials for sustainable wireless devices

This chapter discusses one of the most significant environmental issues that has arisen as a result of the increased amount of electronic waste that is produced by wireless communication devices. This highlights how important it is to adjust how antennas are built so that they don’t harm the environment as much. One of the most important aims is to make sure that everyone knows how to use recyclable materials in antennas. This chapter discusses a few environmentally friendly materials that can be used, such as paper, textiles, and biodegradable polymers like polylactic acid (PLA). It also explores inks that can conduct electricity and can be employed with very precise additive manufacturing technologies. These inks are made up of several different parts, including graphene and silver nanowires. As an alternative to printing techniques that need a significant amount of energy and chemicals, this chapter recommends the utilization of printing processes that are more environmentally friendly, such as inkjet printing and 3D printing. These projects have reduced the amount of garbage, energy, and chemicals that could be harmful that are needed. The ideas behind design-for-disassembly are particularly significant since they help the circular economy grow and make recycling easier. The end of this chapter recommends a full plan to make antennas that will last for a long period. Making new materials, improving procedures, and getting rid of antennas when they are no longer usable should all be part of this approach. The objective of this chapter is to improve the environmental impact of wireless technology in the years to come.