All-metal self-supported THz metamaterial--the meta-foil

Opt Express. 2009 Dec 21;17(26):23914-9. doi: 10.1364/OE.17.023914.

Abstract

Modern metamaterials face functional constraints as they are commonly embedded in or deposited on dielectric materials. We provide a new solution by microfabricating a completely free-standing all-metal self-supported metamaterial. Using upright S-string architecture with the distinctive feature of metallic transverse interconnects, we form a locally stiff, globally flexible space-grid. Infrared Fourier transform interferometry reveals the typical double-peak structure of a magnetically excited left-handed and an electrically excited right-handed pass-band that is maintained under strong bending and heating, and is sensitive to dielectrics. Exploiting UV/X-ray lithography and ultimately plastic moulding, meta-foils can be mass manufactured cost-effectively to serve as optical elements.

Publication types

  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't
  • Research Support, U.S. Gov't, Non-P.H.S.

MeSH terms

  • Light
  • Manufactured Materials / analysis*
  • Materials Testing
  • Metals / chemistry*
  • Scattering, Radiation
  • Terahertz Radiation

Substances

  • Metals