Left-handed metamaterials: detailed numerical studies of the transmission properties

Using numerical simulation techniques such as the transfer matrix method and the commercially available code Microwave Studio, we study the transmission properties of left-handed (LH) metamaterials and arrays of split-ring resonators (SRRs). We examine the dependence of the transmission through single- and double-ring SRRs on parameters of the system such as the size and shape of the SRRs, size of the unit cell, dielectric properties of the embedding medium where the SRRs reside, and SRR orientation relative to the incoming electromagnetic field. Moreover, we discuss the role of SRRs and wires on the electric cut-off frequency of the combined system of wires and SRRs, as well as the influence of the various system parameters on the LH transmission peak of a medium composed of SRRs and wires. Finally, demonstrating the disadvantages of the currently used SRR designs due to the lack of symmetry, we discuss more symmetric, multigap SRRs, which constitute very promising components for future two-dimensional and three-dimensional LH structures.