Revisiting the Perfect Lens
Weiguo Yang, John O. Schenk, Michael A. Fiddy
TL;DR
This paper critically re-evaluates the perfect lens theory based on negative refractive index slabs, revealing that such lenses do not amplify evanescent waves and thus cannot achieve perfect imaging as previously claimed.
Contribution
It identifies an inconsistency in Pendry's perfect lens theory and clarifies that negative index slabs do not provide the perfect imaging enhancement originally proposed.
Findings
Negative index slabs do not amplify evanescent waves.
The perfect lens concept as originally suggested is not physically realizable.
An inconsistency in the original theory is resolved.
Abstract
We carefully examine the negative refractive index slab perfect lens theory by Pendry and point out an inconsistency that can be resolved. As a result, we find negative index slabs do not amplify or enhance evanescent waves and therefore they do not make a perfect lens in the sense that was originally suggested.
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Taxonomy
TopicsMetamaterials and Metasurfaces Applications · Plasmonic and Surface Plasmon Research · Optical Coatings and Gratings