Wide Frequency Characterization of Magnetic Properties of Commercial LTCC Ferrite Material

Abstract

Complex magnetic permeability and hysteresis characteristic are key parameters that determine properties of ferrite components. This paper offers effective, accurate and simple method for complex permeability determination of LTCC (Low Temperature Co-fired Ceramic) ferrite sample at wide frequency range (up to 1 GHz). Presented research can be found to be of importance in fields of ferrite components design and application, as well as RF and microwave engineering. The characterization sample is a stack of LTCC tapes forming a toroidal shape structure. Commercially available ferrite tape ESL 40012 was used and standard LTCC processing applied for the sample fabrication. Permeability is determined in the frequency range from 10 kHz to 1 GHz and characterization procedure is divided in two segments - for low and high frequencies. Low frequency measurements (from 10 kHz to 1000 kHz) are performed using LCZ meter and discrete turns of wire, while a short coaxial sample holder and Vector Network Analyzer were used for the higher frequency range (from 1000 kHz to 1 GHz). Hysteresis properties of this material are also determined. B-H hysteresis loops were measured with BROCKHAUS Tester MPG 100D system using the maximum excitation of 2 kA/m and frequencies of 50 Hz, 500 Hz and 1000 Hz. In addition, we presented another important factor in the practical design, the temperature variation of the permeability dispersion parameters. Obtained results show good agreement with datasheet values given by the manufacturer at lower frequencies and are in good correlation with results extracted from developed dispersion model at higher frequencies.