helical antenna

For normal mode HF mobile whips, I'd expect the obvious - ohmic resistance - to figure in there. As the radiation resistance of these is v.low the efficiency will suffer as the conductivity goes down.

For axial mode types more usually found on VHF/UHF (where circumference approximates a wavelength), the conductor material is largely selected for mechanical properties. Stainless is quite common in commercial units.

If you just want stiffness, I'd look at beryllium copper or phosphor bronze.

Or, for that matter, aluminum - it'd be the lightest of the lot.

Good Luck! Rich

tHE DEVIL IS IN THE DETAILS.. HOW DO SOLDER AN RF CONNECTOR TAB TO SPRING STEEL?

lvmAC

By using lowercase solder, uppercase solder is ok in swimming pools, casino's and brothels, like the rather good one a couple of Km from here, all the police use it

Martin