Abstract
A frequency-tunable patch antenna with reduced radar cross section (RCS) based on absorbing metamaterial is proposed. By controlling the external voltage of the varactor diodes, the working frequency of the patch can be adjusted. Through an investigation of the composite structure of the patch and absorbing metamaterial, RCS reduction is achieved over the entire wide tunable frequency range of the antenna. Measured results illustrate that the proposed patch antenna can dynamically operate in the range from 2.28 to 3.6 GHz with a gain variation of 7.1–8.7 dBi. Meanwhile, the RCS can be reduced by at least 7 dB and up to 20 dB in a fractional bandwidth of 44.9% of the antenna under a normal incidence. In comparison to conventional RCS-reduced antennas, the proposed one features a broader frequency tuning range and has potential value in wideband radar systems under complex electromagnetic interference environments.
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No potential conflict of interest was reported by the author(s).
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Notes on contributors
Yinlong Kuang
Yinlong Kuang received the B.Sc. degree in Electronic Information Science and Technology from Central South University, in China in 2021.
Lianwens Deng
Lianwens Deng is working as Professor at Central South University. He received his Ph.D. degree in Microelectronics and Solid State Electronics from Huazhong University of Science and Technology in China, in 2004.
Gaoyang Zhu
Gaoyang Zhu is working at Hunan University.
Hongjian Li
Hongjian Li is working as Professor at Central South University.
Shengxiang Huang
Shengxiang Huang is working as Professor at Central South University. He received his Ph.D. degree in from Central South University in 2013.