Chiral metamaterials for multifunctional microwave devices

Controlling the polarisation states of light forms an important part of both classical optics and microwaves. One common way to controlling polarisation is through chirality. Natural chiral materials such as quartz have weak electro-magnetic coupling and optical activity is thus a rather weak effect compared to dielectric polarisation effect. “Chiral metamaterials” have brought about a dramatic increase in chirality, opening up a wide range of opportunities for device designers.

This talk will illustrate the use of chiral metamaterials for the design of microwave devices, including antennas and polarisers. Particular focus will be on the ability to impart multifunctionality by exploiting polarisation.