Metamaterials
Contents |
[edit] Introduction
Metamaterials are composite media that can be engineered to exhibit properties that would not otherwise be naturally occurring in materials. The addition of the Greek prefix ‘meta’ (meaning beyond) implies that the substances exhibit properties that go beyond what would be typical.
Metamaterials are made up of nanoparticle building blocks (typically based on composite metals and plastics) that use extremely small, repetitive patterns to interact with light or other waves to produce dynamic effects. The refinement of the refraction can be modified to produce different values and transform positive refraction into negative.
[edit] Negative refraction
Negative refraction of light and other wave forms can be a highly desirable property. It bends waves as they enter the structure of the metamaterial, which may allow the materials to exhibit certain properties, including:
- Invisibility or optical camouflage.
- Extreme light magnification.
- Negative electrical permittivity and magnetic permeability.
[edit] Applications for metamaterials
Metamaterials capable of negative refraction may prove useful in the production of electronics, insulation and coating, heat transfer, energy harvesting and so on.
In the field of photovoltaics, some metamaterials can incorporate repetitive patterns to make better use of solar radiation. This could assist with the problem of silicon and other materials that demand certain cooling levels to maintain their efficiency. Their properties may enhance device light absorption while producing more electricity and improving efficiency through passive radiative cooling. .
Another such metamaterial is a type of sound control panel that uses acoustic metamaterials to make changes to audio waves. This type of product has the same noise reduction effect as conventional materials (such as plywood) but is significantly lighter. It bends sound waves to shape and control them.
[edit] Related articles on Designing Buildings
Featured articles and news
What it is and how to use it.
Investors in People: CIOB achieves gold
Reflecting a commitment to employees and members.
Scratching beneath the surface; a guide to selection.
ECA 2024 Apprentice of the Year Award
Entries open for submission until May 31.
UK gov apprenticeship funding from April 2024
Brief summary the policy paper updated in March.
For the World Autism Awareness Month of April.
70+ experts appointed to public sector fire safety framework
The Fire Safety (FS2) Framework from LHC Procurement.
Project and programme management codes of practice
CIOB publications for built environment professionals.
The ECA Industry Awards 2024 now open !
Recognising the best in the electrotechnical industry.
Sustainable development concepts decade by decade.
The regenerative structural engineer
A call for design that will repair the natural world.
Buildings that mimic the restorative aspects found in nature.
CIAT publishes Principal Designer Competency Framework
For those considering applying for registration as a PD.
BSRIA Building Reg's guidance: The second staircase
An overview focusing on aspects which most affect the building services industry.
Design codes and pattern books
Harmonious proportions and golden sections.
Introducing or next Guest Editor Arun Baybars
Practising architect and design panel review member.