Design Metasurface Glass for Dual-Functionality in 5G Communication and Sensing Applications

Abstract

This work introduces a dual-layer frequency-selective surface (FSS) directly integrated into commercial low-emissivity ITO-coated glass to restore sub-6 GHz transparency while preserving thermal insulation. The assembly comprises two 3.05 mm glass substrates, each bearing a 0.15 mm ITO film: the front sheet is precision-etched with hexagonal ring slots, and the rear sheet incorporates square apertures, separated by a five mm air gap. The simulations of the CST Microwave Studio simulations (0.5–20 GHz; periodic x/y, open z) predict 95 % RF throughput from 0.7 to 6 GHz. Performance remains stable for incidence angles up to 40°. By patterning only the front ITO layer, removing just 5 % of its conductive area, the intact rear coating retains the low E thermal barrier, limiting additional solar heat gain. This engraved metasurface seamlessly combines RF transparency, angular tolerance, and energy efficiency, enabling integration of LTE / 5G and V2X into smart building envelopes and vehicle glazing, as well as environmental sensing applications based on RF.