Negative refraction in a photonic crystal with a metallic cross lattice basis

A metamaterial with a negative effective index of refraction is made from a two-dimensional square lattice photonic crystal with a metallic cross lattice basis. A simple procedure is given to design a negative index band within a desired frequency range. The operating frequency is made sufficiently low so as to avoid high orders of diffraction from a slab. An effective index of −1, which is a requirement for perfect lensing, is designed. In addition, the structure is optimized to exhibit the largest possible bandwidth of negative refraction, while ensuring an isotropic response and efficient coupling from free space. Simulation results show negative refraction of a Gaussian beam through a prism of such a metamaterial. The simplicity and versatility of the structure make it a suitable candidate for frequencies into the infrared region. The dispersive nature of the metallic crosses and planar fabrication are also discussed.