Experimental validation of a Ku-band cross-polarization converter and detailed numerical RCS investigation across multiple geometries
摘要
This study presents a novel broadband metasurface-based polarization converter unit cell. The proposed structure operates in reflection using a cost-effective and readily available substrate with a thickness of 1.6 mm. Efficient cross-polarization conversion is achieved across the Ku-band (12–18 GHz), K-band (18–27 GHz), and Ka-band (27–40 GHz). The polarization conversion performance of the unit cell is validated through reflection coefficient analyses conducted using Ansys HFSS and CST Microwave Studio, as well as real-time free-space measurements performed on a fabricated prototype. Both numerical simulations and experimental results confirm linear-to-linear polarization (LP–LP) conversion with a polarization conversion ratio (PCR) exceeding 90% over the 13.01–27.36 GHz frequency band. In addition, due to the inherent characteristics of linear polarization converters, linear-to-circular polarization (LP–CP) conversion is achieved within the 11.88–12.19 GHz band. The proposed design maintains its performance with a PCR above 80% at an incidence angle of