Genetic Algorithm-Based Hybrid Printed Metasurface for Wideband RCS Reduction

Abstract

This work presents a hybrid printed metasurface based on a genetic algorithm (GA) optimization method for wideband radar cross-section (RCS) reduction applications. The proposed unit cell geometry is based on a Jerusalem cross metallic patch printed on a Rogers RT Duroid 5880 substrate, which is placed on a 3D printed PLA-based perforated substrate and terminated with a ground plane. Two distinct sets of unit cells are designed by varying the patch dimension and substrate height to achieve a reflection phase difference of around 180° ± 37° over a wide range. Next, the unit cells are arranged in the metasurface by using the GA method, resulting in a wideband RCS reduction bandwidth (<-8 dB) spanning from 5.2 GHz to 24.7 GHz. The novelty of the method lies in the utilization of 3-D printing technique to vary the dielectric volume, thereby constituting the multivariate approach, unlike that used in the conventional phase cancellation method for RCS reduction. The proposed metasurface is further analyzed through full-wave simulation and exhibits polarizationinsensitive as well as angularly stable characteristics. © 2025 IEEE.