Bio-inspired terahertz metamaterials based on hybrid additive manufacturing

Terahertz metamaterials are considered the core components of the next generation of optoelectronic systems, and the design of their sub-wavelength structures is the key to improve system performance. Inspired by three-dimensional morphology of natural biological surfaces, the bio-inspired structure terahertz metamaterials are proposed, which can improve the bandwidth, robustness and functionality. Moreover, a hybrid additive manufacturing method is proposed, which is based on two switchable 3D printing techniques: the first is for printing the metamaterial dielectric structures; the second is for printing the conductive patterns. This method can not only fabricate complex three-dimensional dielectric structures, but also has the advantages of simple process, low cost, high precision and integration. Two bio-inspired terahertz metamaterials (broad-band and multi-function) were designed, simulated and prepared. An all-fiber terahertz time-domain spectroscopy system was built to measure the transmission and reflection spectra. The results are consistent with expectations. It demonstrates the effectiveness and potential of the bio-inspired metamaterials and the hybrid additive manufacturing method. © 2024 Elsevier B.V.