Arbitrary angle waveguide bends based on zero-index metamaterials

Abstract

In this paper, efficient arbitrary angle bends based on impedance-matched zero-index metamaterials (ZIMs) are proposed. Numerical simulations on ZIM-based bends are carried out in waveguide systems. The results show clearly that electromagnetic waves can tunnel through the ZIM-based bends with high transmittance at any bending angles. Moreover, a realistic ZIM-based bends are designed and fabricated on microstrip transmission line. Both simulated and experimental results confirm well the low loss and arbitrary angle bending effects in a system hiring ZIM-based microstrip ring resonator as bending corners.