Influence of Nano Particle Size on Attenuation and Dielectric Properties of Plantain Husk Powder Using Microwave Techniques at X-Band Frequency

Abstract

Ferrite are conventional materials used for microwave absorption, however, they are expensive, constitute health hazard and pollutes the environment. For these reasons, there is need to explore safe and environmental friendly materials that can serve as radiation absorbers and be used in fabricating microwave devices. In the light of the above, this work was geared towards exploring the use of Unripe Plantain Husk (UPH) waste material for microwave absorber applications. The usability was determined by investigating the dielectric properties and attenuation of the UPH powder with respect to particle size and frequency of operation. The nano particle of the UPH was prepared aseptically by washing in water and acetone, sliced, sundried and grinded. The grinded UPH powder was then subjected to high energy milling using a SPEX 8000D shaker for 4 hours, 8 hours, 10 hours and 12 hours. The milled powder was then prepared into pellets by suppressing with hydraulic press and mold which were then used for characterization. Results from investigation and analysis showed that the milled powder was in nano dimension using transmission electron microscope (TEM). The UPH powder sizes were in the range of 63.35 nm, 52.05 nm, 42.86 nm and 21.43 nm for the 4, 8, 10 and 12 hours milling, respectively. The dielectric constants for the as produced, 4, 8, 10 and 12 hours milled powder were 2.96, 4.97, 5.66, 6.97 and 10.36, respectively. The highest magnitude for attenuation was calculated for the 12 hours milled powder with a value of 14.92 dB and the least attenuation was calculated for the as produced powder with a value of 6.72 dB. Based on the results obtained it is concluded that nano particles of UPH powder is good for microwave attenuation and is a potential for fabricating electronic components.