A Metamaterial (MTM) Array Antenna Featuring High Gain and Super Wide Bandwidth for mm-Wave 5G NR n257/n260/n261 Networks Applications

This paper presents an innovative compact antenna array comprising four metamaterial (MTM) unit cells specifically crafted for 5G applications. Engineered to operate within the millimeter-wave frequency range, this antenna design guarantees optimal wave propagation attributes. The proposed antenna is designed as a six-element array with rectangular perforated patch elements. The antenna is constructed using Rogers RT5870 material, which is 0.49 mm thick and has a relative permittivity of ε_r = 2.33. Its physical dimensions are compact, measuring 60 × 25 × 0.49 mm³. This configuration ensures wideband responsiveness and achieves high gain within the 5G frequency ranges. The wideband MTM is strategically designed and positioned between the patches and the feed line to expand the bandwidth and enhance the gain. By incorporating a 4 × 1 MTM array, the bandwidth is substantially expanded stretching between 26.35 GHz and 40.77 GHz. The proposed system displays extensive coverage across the 5G bands, boasting a broad bandwidth of 14.42 GHz and offering benefits such as a low profile and elevated gain of approximately 9.7dBi at 28 GHz and 10 dBi at 39 GHz. The MTM array antenna’s performance is experimentally validated, illustrating excellent concordance amid simulated and measured data. The findings highlight its appropriateness for millimeter-wave 5G communication networks, encompassing the n257 (26.5–29.5 GHz)/n260 (37–40 GHz)/n261 (27.5–28.35 GHz) new radio (NR) bands utilized in various countries including the USA, Canada, Italy, Japan, Korea, and Australia.