A Novel Polarization-Independent, Free-Space, Microwave Beam Splitter Utilizing an Inkjet-Printed, 2-D Array Frequency Selective Surface

This letter introduces the first beam splitter that acts on free-space, planar, microwave frequency waves below 80 GHz. The design utilizes a frequency selective surface (FSS) operating away from its normal frequency of operation. The FSS is constructed from an array of scalable printed patterns, which allows for the tenability of the FSS to any frequency that the fabrication method will allow. The basic operation of an FSS, the reasoning behind selecting the chosen unit element and fabrication, and a comparison of simulated and measured results are discussed in detail. An inkjet-printed prototype on a glossy paper substrate utilizing silver nanoparticles verifies the easy and scalable low-cost fabrication capability of the proposed topology.