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Achieving asymmetry and trapping in diffusion with spatiotemporal metamaterials
Miguel Camacho1, Brian Edwards1, Nader Engheta2
1Department of Electrical and Systems Engineering, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, 19104, USA.
Nature Communications
|July 26, 2020
Summary
Researchers developed a novel spatiotemporal metamaterial exhibiting asymmetric diffusion. This breakthrough allows for controlled diffusion, mimicking intrinsic flow, and creating significant concentration gradients for diverse applications.
Area of Science:
- Physics
- Materials Science
- Thermodynamics
Background:
- Diffusion is fundamental to entropy and various scientific fields.
- Diffusive metamaterials are limited by spatial and time symmetries.
- Non-reciprocal metamaterials are established for wave systems.
Purpose of the Study:
- To overcome limitations in diffusive metamaterials.
- To achieve large spatial asymmetric diffusion characteristics.
- To explore applications of spatiotemporal metamaterials.
Main Methods:
- Fabrication of a metamaterial with space- and time-modulated parameters.
- Utilizing relative phase between conductivity and capacity modulations.
- Experimental demonstration using a 1D electrical system with variable capacitors and switches.
Main Results:
- Achieved significant spatial asymmetric diffusion.
- Demonstrated diffusion behaving as if there were an intrinsic flow velocity.
- Created dramatic out-of-equilibrium concentrations and depletions of electric charges.
Conclusions:
- Spatiotemporal metamaterials enable novel control over diffusion.
- The demonstrated system mimics intrinsic flow, breaking symmetry limitations.
- Potential applications in electronics, thermal management, and chemical mixing.
