Design of Optimized Multilayer PIFA With the EBG Structure for SAR Reduction in Mobile Applications

This paper proposes an optimized multilayer planar inverted-F antenna (PIFA) with an electromagnetic bandgap (EBG) at personal communication services band for specific absorption rate (SAR) reduction. The EBG structure, which has bandgap capability and acts as a perfect magnetic conductor surface, can suppress surface waves and reduce undesired radiation from an antenna. Thus, the EBG structure is capable of preventing electromagnetic (EM) fields being emitted in the direction of the human head. To optimize the multilayer PIFA structure for SAR reduction, the EBG structure between the printed circuit board and antenna layer is designed first. Second, a parameter study about the EBG cell numbers, height, and location of the PIFA with the EBG structure is performed. Finally, the optimized multilayer PIFA with the EBG is investigated and the S-parameters, radiation patterns, total radiated power values, and SAR values are presented. The results demonstrate the reduction of SAR values while maintaining the antenna performance. Thus, the human head can be protected from hazardous EM fields using the EBG structure.