Metasurface-Enhanced 2×2 MIMO Antenna with CSRR Loading for 5G NR n258 Band Applications

Year 2026, Volume: 14 Issue: 1, 55 - 65, 31.01.2026

Cihat Şeker , İbrahim Ethem Yilmaz

https://doi.org/10.21541/apjess.1798246

Abstract

Considering the dominant trajectory and evolution of communication technologies in today's society, it is evident that the frequencies associated with 5G NR, along with comprehensive studies conducted within these designated bands, will significantly influence and guide the direction of future research efforts related to 6G studies. The n258 frequency band, which covers the range of 24.25 to 27.50 GHz and is classified under the 5G NR FR2 frequency range, is also being systematically evaluated within this scientific context. During this research, the initial focus was directed toward the complex design and development of a microstrip patch antenna meticulously designed to operate effectively in the specified frequency band. Furthermore, the design of the Multiple Input Multiple Output (MIMO) antenna unit cell was successfully accomplished through the innovative integration of a complementary square ring resonator (CSRR) structure that serves as a complementary component to the aforementioned antenna design. The effect of the proposed metasurface unit cell on operational efficiency was demonstrated, revealing that it performs optimally in the n258 frequency band. The design of the unit cell antenna resulted in achieving an impressive bandwidth achieved an impressive bandwidth of 1.88 GHz, along with a remarkable return loss value of -39.63 dB at the designated center frequency of 26.08 GHz. Based on the fundamental principles established by the unit cell design, a 2 × 2 MIMO antenna configuration was subsequently developed. While the bandwidth characteristic of the newly designed MIMO antenna was recorded at 1.95 GHz, the return loss at the defined center frequency of 26.09 GHz is an exceptional -48.58 dB. These simulation results show strong correlation with the electrical equivalent circuit model. In addition to return loss, the far-field patterns and gains of the antennas are also provided. The maximum gain values of the antennas were obtained as 4.5, 5.3, and 5.84 for Antenna 2, CSRR Loaded Unit Cell and MIMO, respectively, at the designated center frequency of 26.08 GHz.

Keywords

5G NR , MIMO , CSRR , Meta-Surfaces

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