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Simulation, Fabrication and Characterization of THz Metamaterial Absorbers
Published on: December 27, 2012
A new artificial material approach for flat THz frequency lenses
Giorgio Savini1, Peter A R Ade, Jin Zhang
1Department of Physics & Astronomy, University College London, London WC1E 6BT, UK. g.savini@ucl.ac.uk
Optics Express
|November 29, 2012
Summary
Researchers created a Graded Index (GrIn) flat lens for terahertz (THz) frequencies using spatially graded metal meshes. This novel technique allows for tunable refractive indices, enabling practical artificial materials and exotic optical devices.
Area of Science:
- Terahertz (THz) optics
- Metamaterials and artificial materials
- Optical device fabrication
Background:
- Metal mesh structures are standard for THz spectral selection.
- Tunable refractive indices in artificial materials are achievable with specific geometries.
Purpose of the Study:
- To develop a Graded Index (GrIn) thin flat lens for THz frequencies.
- To demonstrate spatial grading of metal meshes for optical applications.
Main Methods:
- Manufacturing a Graded Index (GrIn) thin flat lens by spatially grading metal meshes in a dielectric substrate.
- Characterizing the optical properties of the fabricated lens.
Main Results:
- Successfully manufactured a Graded Index (GrIn) thin flat lens optimized for THz frequencies.
- Experimental measurements confirmed a parabolic refractive index profile, characteristic of a Woods type lens.
- The lens performance was dependent solely on the mesh parameters.
Conclusions:
- Spatially grading metal meshes is a viable technique for creating Graded Index (GrIn) optics.
- This method enables the fabrication of THz flat lenses with tunable optical properties.
- The technique holds potential for realizing other advanced optical devices.
