Decreasing Mutual Coupling in a Phased Array Using a Mutual Coupling Based Element

Generally, mutual coupling substantially affects performance of arrays in both transmit and receive states. This paper is to address this challenge. In this paper, a densely packed S-band circularly polarized (CP) microstrip phased array antenna is designed. The point about the proposed array is the very low mutual coupling between its elements, despite the closely placed elements. This goal was achieved using a very high performance antenna element. The compact, wideband and high-gain circularly polarized antenna element was realized thanks to the instructive effect of the mutual coupling. To prove the concept, a linear five-element uniform array is considered. A mutual coupling of less than -25 dB has been achieved.