Scientists guide light and sound waves out of chaotic scattering in complex cavities

Researchers at CUNY ASRC found that hyperbolic metamaterials force waves to organize into stable closed loops instead of scattering chaotically in irregular cavities. The effect, validated on a mechanical metamaterial, could improve routing of light on chips, wireless signals and biosensors. The study appeared in Nature Physics.

• Waves in hyperbolic media form closed loops instead of chaotic scattering
• Effect validated on a mechanical metamaterial with miniature pillars
• Trajectories have handedness — clockwise or counterclockwise rotation
• Framework applies to 2D materials like boron nitride and molybdenum trioxide