Advances in Full Control of Electromagnetic Waves with Metasurfaces

Abstract

Metasurfaces, two-dimensional versions of metamaterials, retain the great capabilities of three-dimensional counterparts in manipulating electromagnetic wave behaviors, while reducing the challenges in fabrication. By judiciously engineering parameters of individual building blocks (such as geometry, size, and material) and selecting specific design algorithms, metasurfaces are promising to replace conventional electromagnetic elements in nanoplasmonic/photonic devices. Significantly, such concept can be readily promoted to other disciplines, such as acoustics, thermal physics, and seismology. In this article, the latest advances in full control of electromagnetic waves with metasurfaces are briefly reviewed from a functionality perspective. A broad avenue towards real-life applications of metamaterials has been opened up, although they are still at their infant stage. At the end, several promising approaches are suggested to extend the applications of metasurfaces.