Design of a single-layer ±45^◦ dual-polarized directional array antenna for millimeter wave applications^†

A single-layer ±45^◦ dual-polarized directional array antenna for millimeter wave (mm-wave) applications is designed in this communication. Based on the theory of orthogonal circularly polarized (CP) wave multiplexing, two ports of a series-fed dual CP array are fed with equal amplitudes, and the array can radiate a linearly polarized wave with ±45^◦ polarization orientations through the adjustment of the feeding phase difference. As the two ports of the series-fed array are simultaneously excited, the antenna can achieve directional radiation. In addition, the cross-polarization level of the array can be effectively suppressed by placing two series-fed arrays side by side. A prototype of the designed array antenna operating at 30 GHz is fabricated and measured; the working bandwidth of the proposed antenna is approximately 3.5%. Owing to its simple structure and directional radiation, the proposed antenna array is a competitive candidate for mm-wave applications.