Intelligent reflective surfaces (IRSs) for green networks

Abualhayjaa, M., Hassouna, S., Centeno, A. , Abbasi, Q. H. , Ur Rehman, M. , Imran, M. A. and Mohjazi, L. (2023) Intelligent reflective surfaces (IRSs) for green networks. In: Imran, M. A., Taha, A., Ansari, S., Usman, M. and Abbasi, Q. H. (eds.) The Role of 6G and Beyond on the Road to Net-Zero Carbon. Series: IET telecommunications series (108). Institution of Engineering and Technology, pp. 193-219. ISBN 9781839537363 (doi: 10.1049/PBTE108E_ch9)

Abstract

Power efficiency is a critical aspect of green communication as it aims to reduce the carbon footprint of telecommunication networks. Numerous challenges and problems need to be addressed to achieve energy-efficient wireless networks. The deployment and operation of wireless network infrastructure, including base stations (BSs) and access points, demand significant energy resources. Signal propagation poses another challenge, as wireless signals experience attenuation and interference, necessitating higher transmission power to maintain reliable communication. Therefore, developing environmentally friendly solutions for wireless communication is essential. Intelligent reflective surfaces (IRSs) are a novel passive technology that can improve the efficiency of wireless networks. The integration of IRSs into the wireless network reduces the number of active transceivers, enhances coverage, and improves the quality of wireless signals. In contrast to the active technologies such as multiple-input multiple-output (MIMO), active beamforming, and relay networks, which demand extra energy and complicated hardware, IRS is a passive solution, that does not need any radio frequency (RF)-chains, thus, it can be easily integrated into the network, leading to lower energy consumption and a smaller carbon footprint of the network. This chapter aims to present a comprehensive study on applications and design aspects of the IRS in future wireless networks focussing on promoting the use of IRS in green communication and achieving sustainable development goals. The concept of IRS technology and its architecture is presented, and then we highlight the advantages and possible use cases for integrating IRSs into the wireless network. Finally, the IRS is compared with active solutions in terms of its benefits in terms of signal quantity, power efficiency, and sustainability.

• Item Type: Book Sections
• Additional Information: eISBN: 9781839537370
• Status: Published
• Glasgow Author(s) Enlighten ID: Centeno, Dr Anthony and Abualhayja'a, Mr Mohammad and Imran, Professor Muhammad and Ur Rehman, Dr Masood and Hassouna, Saber and Mohjazi, Dr Lina and Abbasi, Professor Qammer
• Authors: Abualhayjaa, M., Hassouna, S., Centeno, A., Abbasi, Q. H., Ur Rehman, M., Imran, M. A., and Mohjazi, L.
• College/School: College of Science and Engineering; College of Science and Engineering > School of Engineering > Autonomous Systems and Connectivity; College of Science and Engineering > School of Engineering > Electronics and Nanoscale Engineering
• Publisher: Institution of Engineering and Technology
• ISBN: 9781839537363

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