Electrically tunable graphene-based metamaterials: A brief review

Abstract

Metamaterials (MMs) represent a group of exciting artificial materials that interact with electromagnetic waves in unnatural ways. The motivation behind MM research arises not only from fundamental interest in their unique physical properties but also from the desire of creating smarter materials for advanced technological applications. Despite an abundance of studies on numerous shapes, sizes and operating frequencies, the use of conventional metal-dielectric components makes the post-fabrication physical properties of MMs unalterable. Therefore, the integration of other nonlinear materials is necessary for exploring the functional limits of MMs. In this regard, a mono-layer of carbon, the so-called graphene, with its unique electrical conductivity is identified as a promising candidate. This review discusses the recent progress on tunable graphene-based THz MMs for perfect absorption and electromagnetically-induced transparency effects. A short overview of prospect challenges and tendencies is also given for future development of graphene-integrated MMs towards upcoming smart meta-devices.