Call for thesis applications

Description :

The increasing prevalence of wireless radio systems, such as Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, and cellular networks, has made printed circuit boards (PCBs) more vulnerable to EM waves leading EMC issues. These wireless systems operate across a wide range of frequencies, generating significant EM radiation that can interfere with the functionality of PCBs, particularly in densely populated environments where multiple devices are transmitting simultaneously. This increased exposure makes it critical to design PCBs with proper shielding and filtering techniques to minimize susceptibility to EMI and further ensure reliable performance in the presence of these ubiquitous wireless signals.

PCBs within packaging are typically shielded with metal to prevent EMC/EMI issues. However, to enable the additional capability of supplying ultra-low-power sensors or integrated circuits with sufficient energy, the metal shielding must be modified or replaced while still protecting the PCB from unwanted EM disturbance. If feasible, RF energy harvesting from external sources, such as the abundant EM energy present in the atmosphere, can be a potential solution to significantly improve the device overall sustainability, allowing prolonged operation without the need for frequent battery replacements or recharging.

The primary objective of this thesis is to develop an effective non-metallic solution that not only shields electronic devices from external radiation but also harnesses available RF power through energy harvesting, storage, and management. EM metasurface absorbers offer a promising approach, as they can protect electronics by blocking, reflecting, or absorbing polarization-independent EM waves. Additionally, instead of dissipating absorbed energy, these metasurfaces can convert propagating EM waves into guided waves, making them usable for ultra-low power applications.

Host institution : ESEO (France)

Enrolment in the PhD program : INSA RENNES (France)