Properties of small gap-loaded patch antenna with fast-wave behaviours

A compact patch antenna periodically loaded by air gaps is presented. The gaps are arranged to create EBG cells, which affect the dispersive behaviours of the patch (as a transmission line). This causes waves to travel faster along the patch, and increases the cumulative radiation from the structure. The proposed antenna is compared with its conventional counterpart, considering the efficiency, electrical/physical size and the potential to achieve an electrically small footprint. Experimental results validate the analyses.