Zarifi of School of Engineering, University of British Columbia

Technological advancements and material innovations are accelerating the growth of sensor systems across industries, driven by the expanding Internet of Things (IoT). With billions of devices projected globally, 5G and emerging 6G networks promise ultra-low latency, higher data rates, and massive connectivity. However, this rapid expansion raises sustainability concerns, including increased energy use, carbon emissions, and electronic waste from the short lifecycle and widespread deployment of connected devices. This talk presents the development of MXene-based flexible RFID structures designed for sustainable sensing and communication in Internet of Things (IoT) applications. The unique combination of high electrical conductivity, mechanical flexibility, and environmental compatibility makes MXenes a promising alternative to traditional rigid, metal-based RFID tags and antennas. The design and performance of passive MXene RFID tags and antennas will be discussed, supported by both simulation and experimental results. Key use cases, fabrication strategies, and performance benchmarks will be discussed, highlighting the potential of these materials to drive the next generation of sustainable smart systems.

Biography:

Mohammad Hossein Zarifi (Ph.D. PEng, PRC Tier II, Fellow IEEE), is an Associate Professor and Tier II Principal’s Research Chair (PRC) in Sensors and Microelectronics at the University of British Columbia’s School of Engineering. He also directs the Okanagan MicroElectronics and Gigahertz Applications (OMEGA) Lab in Canada. Dr. Zarifi has published over 150 peer-reviewed journal and conference papers and holds six issued or pending patents. His research focuses on applied electromagnetics and circuits and systems for communication and sensing applications. He served as Chair and member of IEEE MTT-S Technical Committee 26 on RFID, Wireless Sensors, and IoT. He is currently an IEEE MTT-S Distinguished Microwave Lecturer (2024–2027). Dr. Zarifi received the Emerging Researcher Award in 2020 and the Best Teaching Award in 2021 from UBC’s School of Engineering.

Email:

Address:School of Engineering, University of British Columbia, EME 3221, 1137 Alumni Ave, Kelowna, British Columbia, Canada, V1V 1V7