The impact of nearest neighbor interaction on the resonances in terahertz metamaterials

By using terahertz time-domain spectroscopy and rigorous simulations, we investigate the impact of gap orientation of neighboring split rings on the three lowest order eigenmodes for a metamaterial based on split ring resonators. We distinct scenarios where neighboring split rings have their gap either on the same or on opposite sides. The two lowest order eigenmodes are marginally affected, whereas the higher order eigenmode experiences a significant spectral reshaping. By modifying the period it is shown that due to a coherent interaction a huge resonance sharpening is observed. Hence potential application can be anticipated by using such materials, e.g., in sensing devices. © 2009 American Institute of Physics. DOI: 10.1063/1.3063051