Dk 2.20 ± 0.02, Df as low as 0.0009 at 10 GHz, 0.02% moisture absorption — how RT/duroid 5880 delivers low-loss transmission from Ku-band to mmWave, and what its PTFE base means for fabrication.
The core value of RT/duroid 5880 lies in its superior electrical characteristics, which directly determine high-frequency signal transmission quality.
First, an exceptionally low and stable dielectric constant: at the industry-standard test frequency of 10 GHz, Dk holds at 2.20 ± 0.02 — among the lowest in its class, and nearly constant across a broad frequency range. That stability lets engineers achieve highly predictable signal propagation speeds and impedance calculations, forming the basis for precision microwave components like filters and couplers. The complete parameter set is in our RT/duroid 5880 parameters breakdown.
Second, an extremely low dissipation factor — as low as 0.0009 at 10 GHz. Df dictates energy attenuation as the signal travels the substrate; this remarkably low value enables high-Q circuits with steeper filter roll-offs and lower insertion loss, supporting applications from the Ku-band (12–18 GHz) up to millimeter-wave uses.
Extremely low moisture absorption — just 0.02%. Moisture is a primary factor shifting a board’s dielectric properties. In humid environments, common materials absorb water and their Dk and Df drift, hurting performance. RT/duroid 5880’s near-negligible absorption ensures long-term stability for outdoor base stations, aerospace vehicles, and high-humidity regions.
Excellent physical and chemical stability. The material is a PTFE composite reinforced with randomly oriented glass microfibers — granting isotropic properties (consistent electrical behavior in all directions) and good resistance to the chemical solvents used in etching and plating, which facilitates reliable surface treatment and manufacturing. This comprehensive stability makes it ideal for high-reliability fields.
Leveraging these characteristics, Rogers 5880 becomes the material of choice across high-technology sectors:
The RT/duroid 5880 series includes both the standard model and RT/duroid 5880LZ. The LZ variant uses unique filler technology for an even lower Dk (approx. 1.96) and reduced density, designed specifically for aerospace applications — such as spacecraft antennas — where minimal weight and ultra-low Dk are paramount. Both sit in the wider Rogers family we cover in RT5870/RT5880 materials explained.
Regarding fabrication: as a PTFE-based substrate, its processing — especially drilling and hole metallization — differs from standard FR-4 epoxy laminates. To ensure final performance meets design expectations, production should be entrusted to manufacturers with proven expertise and mature processes in high-frequency specialty PCB fabrication.
Rogers RT/duroid 5880 is more than an engineering material — it is a key enabling component driving progress in wireless communications, radar detection, and space technology. Its balance of low loss, high stability, and environmental resilience ensures an indispensable role as frequencies climb and applications grow more complex. For engineers designing high-performance, high-reliability RF systems, a deep understanding of this material is a vital step toward successful design.
Common questions about Rogers RT/duroid 5880.
Dk of 2.20 ± 0.02 and Df as low as 0.0009 at 10 GHz — among the lowest-loss laminates in its class, enabling high-Q circuits and stable impedance design.
Choose 5880LZ when weight and ultra-low Dk dominate — primarily aerospace applications like spacecraft antennas. It achieves roughly 1.96 Dk with reduced density through unique filler technology.
No. As a PTFE-based substrate, its drilling and hole metallization differ significantly from FR-4 processing. Use a manufacturer with proven high-frequency specialty PCB experience.
Yes. With moisture absorption of just 0.02%, its dielectric properties barely shift in humidity — ideal for outdoor base stations, aerospace vehicles, and high-humidity deployments.
PTFE-based 5880 demands specialist drilling and hole metallization. Our high-frequency line handles it daily — send us your design for a fast quote.
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