Waveguides for high-frequency signals have traditionally been realised using bulky three dimensional structures (e.g. coaxial cable, rectangular/circular waveguides supporting non-TEM modes, etc). However, recently there has been some interest in developing planar waveguiding structures using metasurfaces. Metasurfaces are two-dimensional equivalents of metamaterials, which are structures that contain a repeating microstructure - the elements of which are much smaller than a wavelength. Although the basic design of metasurfaces is well understood, high-performance designs (which have low loss and low dispersion) can be challenging to realise.
In 2017 a working prototype of a metasurface waveguide was sucessfully produced. This project will be extended this year to consider additional bend geometries and launching structures by (i) identifying appropriate implementation strategies; (ii) designing, modelling and optimising these structures using CST Studio Suite/Microwave Studio; and (iii) fabricating the design(s) and measuring their performance.
Undergraduate
Designs of metasurface waveguide bends and launchers (from coaxial cable).
Prerequisite ELECTENG307, corequisite ELECTENG721.
Lab allocations have not been finalised