77GHz MMIC transceiver modules with thick-film multi-layer ceramic substrate for automotive radar applications
A 77GHz MMIC transceiver module has been developed for automotive radar applications by using a low-cost thick-film multi-layer ceramic substrate. The module accommodating all MMIC-based transceiver functions in a single-cavity housing for improved manufacturability can be either assembled with built-in Tx/Rx antennas or mounted on external antenna sheet, depending on required antenna beam width. The module, measuring 25/spl times/25/spl times/3.4mm/sup 3/ with 3.3g in weight, has demonstrated >150m target detection capability when evaluated in a radar system, compatible with our current production-type radar.
Finding environmentally gentle methods to graft Lewis acid on the surface of mesoporous materials is a topic of current interest. Herein we describe the optimization of a preparation procedure of a mesoporous silica-supported ErIII catalyst using the microwave-assisted post-calcination functionalization of Mobil Composition of Matter-41 silica as the key step. The required time for functionalization was reduced from several hours to 10 min using sealed-vessel microwave technology. Control experiments using conventional heating at the same temperature demonstrated that the rate increase is owing to a simple thermal/kinetic effect as a result of the higher reaction temperature. The resulting ErIII catalyst was tested for the first time as a catalyst in the continuous flow deprotection of benzaldehyde dimethylacetal and a complete leaching study was performed.