Origami metamaterials for ultra-wideband and large-depth reflection modulation

Abstract The dynamic control of electromagnetic waves is a persistent pursuit in modern industrial development. The state-of-the-art dynamic devices suffer from limitations such as narrow bandwidth, limited modulation range, and expensive features. To address these issues, we fuse origami techniques with metamaterial design to achieve ultra-wideband and large-depth reflection modulation. Through a folding process, our proposed metamaterial achieves over 10-dB modulation depth over 4.96 – 38.8 GHz, with a fractional bandwidth of 155% and tolerance to incident angles and polarizations. Its ultra-wideband and large-depth reflection modulation performance is verified through experiments and analyzed through multipole decomposition theory. To enhance its practical applicability, transparent conductive films are introduced to the metamaterial, achieving high optical transparency (>87%) from visible to near-infrared light while maintaining cost-effectiveness. Benefiting from lightweight, foldability, and low-cost properties, our design shows promise for extensive satellite communication and optical window mobile communication management.