Abstract
In this study, we demonstrated a new class of frequency-switchable metamaterial absorber in the X-band. Eutectic gallium-indium (EGaIn), a liquid metal alloy, was injected in a microfluidic channel engraved on polymethyl methacrylate (PMMA) to achieve frequency switching. Numerical simulation and experimental results are presented for two cases: when the microfluidic channels are empty, and when they are filled with liquid metal. To evaluate the performance of the fabricated absorber prototype, it is tested with a rectangular waveguide. The resonant frequency was successfully switched from 10.96 GHz to 10.61 GHz after injecting liquid metal while maintaining absorptivity higher than 98%.
Highlights
A metamaterial is an artificial structure composed of periodically arranged metallic patterns and thin wires [1]
Eutectic gallium-indium (EGaIn) is used as liquid metal for the frequency-tunable metamaterial absorber application
When EGaIn is injected into the microfluidic channels of the proposed absorber, the metamaterial absorber resonates at 10.61 GHz with 98% absorptivity
Summary
A metamaterial is an artificial structure composed of periodically arranged metallic patterns and thin wires [1]. When an active liquid crystal is incorporated in metamaterial unit cells, the absorption ratio changes by 30%, and the absorption frequency is controlled as well with 4% bandwidth [14]. Microfluidic technology has been applied to a frequency-tunable metamaterial absorber [31]. Various tuning techniques have been applied to tunable metamaterial absorbers, the use of liquid metal has not been reported yet. We propose a novel frequency-switchable metamaterial absorber using liquid metal for the first time. By injecting liquid metal into microfluidic channels, the absorption frequency can be controlled without applying bias voltages. The temperatures required to melt solder are too high to be compatible with many organic materials Because of these merits, EGaIn is used as liquid metal for the frequency-tunable metamaterial absorber application
Sign-in/Register to view highlights & summary Sign-in/Register to access full text options 
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Schedule a callDisclaimer: All third-party content on this website/platform is and will remain the property of their respective owners and is provided on "as is" basis without any warranties, express or implied. Use of third-party content does not indicate any affiliation, sponsorship with or endorsement by them. Any references to third-party content is to identify the corresponding services and shall be considered fair use under The CopyrightLaw.
