This paper presents a comprehensive review of Frequency Selective Surfaces (FSSs), highlighting their unique electromagnetic capabilities in controlling the transmission, reflection, and absorption of electromagnetic waves as a function of frequency. FSSs are typically composed of periodic arrangements of conductive patches or apertures on a substrate, where structural optimization enables precise manipulation of electromagnetic responses. Due to their versatility, FSSs have found applications in diverse areas such as solar energy harvesting, electromagnetic interference shielding, radar systems, wireless communication, antenna design, and filtering structures. A major focus of this review is on the role of FSSs in millimeter-wave (mm-wave) communication systems and Reconfigurable Intelligent Surfaces (RIS). Within RIS frameworks, FSSs can be dynamically reconfigured by modifying geometry, spacing, or material properties, allowing for advanced functionalities such as beamforming, signal steering, interference mitigation, spectrum management, and frequency-selective channel shaping. Functionally, FSSs act as over-the-air electromagnetic filters, enabling either frequency transmission (transmissive FSS, analogous to passband filters) or rejection (reflective FSS, analogous to stopband filters). Additionally, the integration of FSSs with artificial magnetic conductors enhances antenna performance by minimizing backward radiation while improving gain and efficiency, making them particularly useful in wearable and compact antenna systems. As engineered metamaterials, FSSs also support antenna miniaturization, mutual coupling reduction, and wideband/multi-band operation. Overall, the review underscores the indispensable role of FSSs in next-generation communication systems, particularly in advanced 5G and upcoming 6G technologies, where efficient electromagnetic wave management is critical for high-performance and compact designs.
Judice et al. (2026) studied this question.