Imaging of extended objects by a negative refractive index slab

Abstract

Using a finite element method, we numerically study the imaging of an extended object by slabs of media with negative refractive index (within an effective medium theory). We analyse the consequences of possible deviations of the refractive index of the slab from the archetypal value of n = -1. These variations are obtained by introducing losses in the material and also by changing the real part of n. In this way, we show how slight changes in the refractive index from n = -1 affect the resolution of the image of the extended object. © IOP Publishing Ltd and Deutsche Physikalische Gesellschaft.