Reconfigurable Gradient Index using VO2 Memory Metamaterials

TL;DR

This paper demonstrates a reconfigurable metamaterial device with a tunable spatial gradient in permittivity at THz frequencies, achieved via electrical control of VO2, enabling potential applications in beamforming and communications.

Contribution

It introduces a novel method of electrically tuning a gradient index in a metamaterial using VO2 memory metamaterials, with spatial control on wavelength scales.

Findings

Achieved a writeable spatial permittivity gradient with a single electrical pulse.

Demonstrated gradient control at scales on the order of one wavelength at 1 THz.

Showed potential for future beamforming and communication devices.

Abstract

We demonstrate tuning of a metamaterial device that incorporates a form of spatial gradient control. Electrical tuning of the metamaterial is achieved through a vanadium dioxide layer which interacts with an array of split ring resonators. We achieved a spatial gradient in the magnitude of permittivity, writeable using a single transient electrical pulse. This induced gradient in our device is observed on spatial sc ales on the order of one wavelength at 1 THz. Thus, we show the viability of elements for use in future devices with potential applications in beamforming and communications