Broadband circularly polarized folded transmitarray antenna based on polarization conversion metasurfaces

In this communication, a novel design of compact and low-profile broadband circularly polarized folded transmitarray antenna (CPFTA) is reported. A broadband linear-to-circular polarization conversion metasurface (PCM) with multi-mode operation is initially developed as the sub-reflector, to reflect the y-polarized waves and transmit x-polarized waves into right-handed circularly polarized waves. Additionally, by rotating the circularly polarized transmitters, geometric phase can be exploited for phase compensation. Then, a linear-to-linear PCM with high efficiency is designed as the main reflector. As verification, a CPFTA integrated with a broadband planar feed source and the proposed high-efficiency PCMs at X band is designed, fabricated, and experimentally characterized. The measured results are in good accordance with the simulated ones, revealing a -10 dB impedance bandwidth of 28.7%, a 3 dB gain bandwidth of 22.9%, and a 3 dB axial ratio bandwidth of 31.9%. Meanwhile, the achieved peak gain is 25.2 dBi at 10.35 GHz with a maximum aperture efficiency of 28.3%. Combining the advantages of broadband operation, flat gain, and ease of integration, the proposed CPFTA is an attractive candidate for modern wireless communications.

Automated summary

A novel design of compact and low-profile broadband circularly polarized folded transmitarray antenna (CPFTA) is reported in this study. The antenna utilizes a broadband linear-to-circular polarization conversion metasurface (PCM) and a linear-to-linear PCM to achieve efficient polarization conversion. Experimental results demonstrate a wide impedance bandwidth, gain bandwidth, and axial ratio bandwidth. With its advantages of broadband operation, flat gain, and ease of integration, the proposed CPFTA is a promising candidate for modern wireless communications.