Fundamentals of Metamaterials for High-Power RF Applications

Overview

The document titled "Fundamentals of Metamaterials for High-power RF Applications" is a final report authored by Prof. Rebecca Seviour from Lancaster University, covering research conducted from June 21, 2010, to June 21, 2011, under EOARD Grant 10-3082. The report is part of a collaborative effort with the Air Force Research Laboratory and focuses on the development and application of microwave metamaterials, particularly in high-power microwave (HPM) technologies.

Metamaterials are engineered materials that exhibit unique electromagnetic properties not found in nature, enabling microwave designers to achieve novel functionalities and compact device designs. The report highlights the potential of metamaterials in various low-power applications, such as antennas and strip lines, while emphasizing their promise in high-power scenarios.

Key areas of research discussed in the report include the effects of disorder in metamaterials, the impact of high power on material performance, and a comparative analysis of different realizations of metamaterial "atoms." The findings suggest that understanding these factors is crucial for advancing the design and implementation of metamaterials in HPM devices.

The report also details experimental investigations into the applicability of specific structures, such as the SRR (Split Ring Resonator) array, for high-power applications. Researchers explored the effects of shorting or opening individual elements within the array to assess their performance under high-power conditions. This experimentation represents an initial step toward leveraging metamaterials for the development of compact microwave and HPM sources.

The collaborative research team, which includes Dr. Elena Luchinski, Dr. Yap Soon Tan, and others from the Air Force Research Laboratory, aims to lay the groundwork for future advancements in metamaterial technology. The report concludes that while significant progress has been made, further research is necessary to fully realize the potential of metamaterials in high-power RF applications.

Overall, this document serves as a foundational resource for understanding the principles and applications of metamaterials in high-power contexts, providing insights into both theoretical and practical aspects of this emerging field. The findings and methodologies presented are expected to guide future research and development efforts in the area of high-power microwave technologies.