5G communication networks promise enhanced connectivity with higher speeds and larger bandwidth. Due to their reliance on higher frequency bands, these networks are subject to connectivity challenges such as line-of-sight requirements and sensitivity to physical obstacles. Anomalous reflectors, such as reflectarrays, reflective metasurfaces, and reconfigurable intelligent surfaces, offer a low-cost, passive/semi-passive solution for re-establishing connectivity between a blocked line-of-sight path. These devices work by redirecting incident signals towards the desired direction. This thesis focuses on the use of Galinstan liquid metal, a high electrical conductivity and deformable alloy, to replace typical materials used by anomalous reflectors. Using liquid metal, progressing degrees of reconfigurability are explored to improve connectivity for 5G frequency bands.

Glan Allan V. Manio is an M.S. candidate in Electrical and Computer Engineering at the University of Hawaii at Manoa. He received a B.S. in Electrical Engineering from the University of Hawaii at Manoa in 2023. His current research focuses on liquid metal and its application in reconfigurable intelligent surfaces (RIS).