GEMMA-CIMITEC Group combines disruptive research with technology transfer based on such research activities, beyond the state-of-the art. The activity of GEMMA-CIMITEC since its creation in 2006 has been focused onRF/microwave engineeringwith emphasis on the application of advanced concepts and technologies (e.g., metamaterials, electromagnetic symmetry properties, printed electronics and 3D printing, microfluidicsetc.) to the design of advanced devices/systems with novel or improved functionalities and/or with reduced size/cost.
The main research lines currently are:
Microwave sensors and sensing systems
Development of highly sensitive permittivity sensors, based on RF/microwave circuits, useful for dielectric characterization of solids and liquids, for the determination of material composition, for the detection of defects and, in general, for the measurement of many variables related to permittivity (temperature, humidity, etc.). These sensors can be applied in diverse scenarios, such as biosensing, sensors for medical healthcare, sensors for monitoring industrial processes, or sensors for measuring environmental variables, among others, compatible with the today’s paradigms of Industry 4.0 and Internet of Things (IoT).
Development of electromagnetic (microwave) encoders for motion control applications (displacement and velocity sensors) Electromagnetic encoders constitute a good alternative to the well-known optical encoders, with very good spatial resolution, but exhibiting a limited robustness for operation under harsh/hostile conditions, or in environments subjected to pollution or dirtiness, such as those encountered in many industrial scenarios Magnetic encoders and Hall-effect sensors are also of interest for motion control, but such sensors are based on inductive elements or magnets, thereby representing a higher cost solution, as compared to electromagnetic encoders
Chipless Radiofrequency identification (RFID)
Chipless RFID proximity technology, or near-field, allows to obtain labels with a high number of bits and low cost for different applications, such as:
– Document identification and security (Secure paper): Traceability and verification of special documents where physical support must be used (certified paper, notary acts, affidavits, medical prescriptions, election material …)
– Smart Packaging: Packaging of low-cost elements that require traceability control, such as some types of medicines. Also useful to establish control systems in waste management.
The research tasks are oriented to:
Implementation of near-field chipless-RFID systems based on hybrid time/frequency encoding schemes, with potentially very high data density, superior to that of systems based on either time or frequency domain.
Development of new eco-friendly chipless-RFID tags, implemented in flexible plastic and organic/biodegradable substrates, such as papers, and textiles by means of conductive and organic inks, or based on tag inclusions implemented by means of dielectric materials.