Optically and radiofrequency-transparent metadevices based on quasi-one-dimensional surface plasmon polariton structures

Transparent metadevices could equip electronic systems with unique functionalities such as anti-interference and stealth capabilities. However, optically transparent devices currently rely on transparent conductive materials, which have low optical transmittance, low operating efficiency and an inability to achieve radiofrequency transparency. Here, we show that metadevices based on quasi-one-dimensional surface plasmon polariton structures can offer optical and radiofrequency transparency. The structures are composed of subwavelength unit cells created from fine metallic lines printed on a flexible and transparent substrate. The approach can be used to create arbitrarily shaped waveguides with topological robustness for transmission applications, and converters for changing surface plasmon polariton waves into space waves for radiation applications. To illustrate the potential of the technology, we use the microwave metadevices to construct a wireless communication scheme for image transfer.