Double-negative-index metamaterials are proposed for the UV

Jan. 1, 2011
Fabrication of negative-index metamaterial (NIM) lenses (which can image beyond the diffraction limit) has made progress, but the creation of such lenses for the visible spectrum has been difficult due to high losses.

Fabrication of negative-index metamaterial (NIM) lenses (which can image beyond the diffraction limit) has made progress, but the creation of such lenses for the visible spectrum has been difficult due to high losses. Two kinds of NIM exist: double-negative (in which both the permittivity and permeability are negative), and single-negative (in which either the permittivity or permeability is negative). The first (much harder to make) has potentially higher performance. While single-negative metamaterials have been made that function with yellow light, double-negative materials have only been made for wavelengths as short as 725 nm.

Now, researchers at Zhejiang University (Hangzhou, China) and the Royal Institute of Technology (Stockholm, Sweden) have, at least theoretically, come up with a double-negative NIM geometry that could work down to UV wavelengths. They propose three types of silver structures—ring, disk, and nanowire—all of which have gaps that behave as magnetic dipoles that result in a negative permeability, but also decrease current strength, and thus loss. The nanowire-based device, although restricted to 2D structures, could be usable in the UV; the other two types are suitable for 3D structures, but work only in the visible. Contact Sailing He at [email protected].

About the Author

John Wallace | Senior Technical Editor (1998-2022)

John Wallace was with Laser Focus World for nearly 25 years, retiring in late June 2022. He obtained a bachelor's degree in mechanical engineering and physics at Rutgers University and a master's in optical engineering at the University of Rochester. Before becoming an editor, John worked as an engineer at RCA, Exxon, Eastman Kodak, and GCA Corporation.

Sponsored Recommendations

How to Tune Servo Systems: Force Control

Oct. 23, 2024
Tuning the servo system to meet or exceed the performance specification can be a troubling task, join our webinar to learn to optimize performance.

Laser Machining: Dynamic Error Reduction via Galvo Compensation

Oct. 23, 2024
A common misconception is that high throughput implies higher speeds, but the real factor that impacts throughput is higher accelerations. Read more here!

Boost Productivity and Process Quality in High-Performance Laser Processing

Oct. 23, 2024
Read a discussion about developments in high-dynamic laser processing that improve process throughput and part quality.

Precision Automation Technologies that Minimize Laser Cut Hypotube Manufacturing Risk

Oct. 23, 2024
In this webinar, you will discover the precision automation technologies essential for manufacturing high-quality laser-cut hypotubes. Learn key processes, techniques, and best...

Voice your opinion!

To join the conversation, and become an exclusive member of Laser Focus World, create an account today!