Mutual coupling reduction between antennas array for 5G mobile applications

Abstract

This paper introduces the design of a multiple-input-multiple-output (MIMO) antenna optimized for low-profile applications supporting sub-6 GHz fifth-generation (5G) wireless applications. We have started the design from a single antenna with a square patch shape, each antenna array is composed from 4-element radiators fed by using power dividers and quarter microstrip lines. Mounted on a single Rogers RT5880 substrate, the MIMO antenna functions at 3.5 GHz. In order to miniature and to decrease the mutual coupling between the both antennas array we have optimised a magnetic wall based on periodic structures permitting to decrease the mutual coupling between the both antenna array. The unit element from the wall was optimised, studied and validated in order to absorb the surface current and to enhance the isolation between the different radiating elements. The dimensions of the proposed MIMO antenna are 154×220×0.578 mm³. The MIMO antenna final circuit achieves a peak gain of 9 dBi and an isolation around -30 dB. The introduction of the magnetic wall permits to enhance the isolation between the antenna array from -20 dB to -30 dB at 3.5 GHz band. This advancement contributes to the overall performance improvement of the MIMO antenna system.