Dielectric Bed of Nails in Gap-Waveguide Technology at Millimeter-Wave Frequencies

Gap-waveguide technology is based on the guidance of a quasi-TEM mode between two PEC plates. The confinement is possible due to a PEC/PMC condition on laterals, which prohibits the propagation of waves on those directions. PMC condition is commonly created by means of a metallic bed of nails. This letter examines the possibility of using a dielectric bed of nails to impose the PMC condition. The use of such kind of nails may facilitate the insertion of active components. Measurements for a straight transmission line and a power divider are included to verify the correct behavior of the dielectric bed of nails.