Experimental analysis of Λ-shaped magnetic resonator for mu-negative metamaterials

Numerical simulation and experimental analysis of a novel metamaterial using periodic passive planar structure composed of Λ-shaped inclusions are presented. Experimental and computational results are shown to be in very good agreement. The Λ-shaped inclusions operate as magnetic resonators providing negative permeability behavior as a result of the magnetic resonance arising from the self and mutual coupling of the inclusions. Issues related to the unit cell dimension versus operation wavelength are also addressed. The proposed design allows the metallization to be non-nested as opposed to the usual split-ring-resonators. Furthermore, specific permeability values at the frequency of interest can be easily established by changing the inclusion dimensions providing extra flexibility to control the electromagnetic response of the structure. The proposed design and its variations enable myriad applications such as super-lens for free-space microwave-focusing as well as creating double-negative metamaterials by combining the structure with a conducting strip.