Artificial dielectric devices for variable polarization compensation at millimeter and submillimeter wavelengths

Drysdale, T.D., Blaikie, R.J., Chong, H.M.H. and Cumming, D.R.S. (2003) Artificial dielectric devices for variable polarization compensation at millimeter and submillimeter wavelengths. IEEE Transactions on Antennas and Propagation, 51(11), pp. 3072-3079. (doi: 10.1109/TAP.2003.818787)

Abstract

Variable polarization compensation has been demonstrated at 100 GHz. The device consists of two interlocking V-groove artificial dielectric gratings that produce a birefringence that varies with the separation distance. A maximum retardance of 74/spl deg/ has been obtained experimentally in a silicon device, in good agreement with rigorous coupled-wave computer simulations. Further simulations predict that adding quarter wave dielectric antireflection (AR) coatings to the outer surfaces of the device can reduce the insertion loss to below 4 dB. The use of rectangular grooved gratings provides increased retardance and reduced loss. It is predicted that a coupled device with rectangular grooved gratings will be capable of maximum retardance in excess of 180/spl deg/, with low insertion loss (<0.6 dB). The sensitivity of the wave retardation as a function of mechanical separation has a peak value of 485/spl deg//mm. The design and micromachining fabrication techniques scale for operation at submillimeter wavelengths.

• Item Type: Articles
• Status: Published
• Refereed: Yes
• Glasgow Author(s) Enlighten ID: Cumming, Professor David and Drysdale, Dr Timothy
• Authors: Drysdale, T.D., Blaikie, R.J., Chong, H.M.H., and Cumming, D.R.S.
• Subjects: T Technology > TJ Mechanical engineering and machinery
• College/School: College of Science and Engineering > School of Engineering > Electronics and Nanoscale Engineering
• Journal Name: IEEE Transactions on Antennas and Propagation
• Publisher: IEEE
• ISSN: 0018-926X
• Copyright Holders: Copyright © 2003 IEEE
• First Published: First published in IEEE Transactions on Antennas and Propagation 51(11):3072-3079
• Publisher Policy: Reproduced in accordance with the copyright policy of the publisher.