We have conducted numerical and experimental studies of a simple metamaterial structure formed from 'C' shaped copper rings. Our study focuses on the investigation of the individual resonant elements by surface current and Q factor. We have also analysed wavelike signal propagation along these structures' axes recently predicted theoretically - so called magneto-inductive waves (MIWs). Computer based finite difference electromagnetic methods have been employed to both visualize the surface currents and investigate the effects of varying coupling within the structures. Experimental work has closely followed the theoretical work with measurements carried out using a Vector Network Analyzer to determine the frequency dependent scattering parameters. Applications of these structures are also considered in our work and the aim is to develop a robust, reliable design tool that enables rapid determination of the appropriate dimensions to enable operation of a magneto-inductive waveguide at a desired frequency. The simulation work demonstrates the possibilities for wave propagation in curved guides formed from stacks and rows of elements. And these may form the basis for a new class of microwave filter offering tunability and flexibility and requiring no direct connections to the driving circuits.

Date Published: 27 September 2005
PDF: 9 pages
Proc. SPIE 5955, Metamaterials, 59550R (27 September 2005); doi: 10.1117/12.621103

Published in SPIE Proceedings Vol. 5955:
Metamaterials
Tomasz Szoplik; Ekmel Özbay; Costas M. Soukoulis; Nikolay I. Zheludev, Editor(s)