title: Multi-octave metamaterial reflective half-wave plate for millimeter and sub-millimeter wave applications.
abstract: The quasi-optical modulation of linear polarization at millimeter and sub-millimeter wavelengths can be achieved by using rotating half-wave plates (HWPs) in front of polarization-sensitive detectors. Large operational bandwidths are required when the same device is meant to work simultaneously across different frequency bands. Previous realizations of half-wave plates, ranging from birefringent multi-plates to mesh-based devices, have achieved bandwidths of the order of 100%. Here we present the design and experimental characterization of a reflective HWP able to work across bandwidths of the order of 150%. The working principle of the novel device is completely different from any previous realization, and it is based on the different phase-shift experienced by two orthogonal polarizations reflecting, respectively, off an electric conductor and an artificial magnetic conductor.
authors.forename: Giampaolo
authors.initials: G
authors.lastname: Pisano
authors.forename: Bruno
authors.initials: B
authors.lastname: Maffei
authors.forename: Peter A R
authors.initials: PA
authors.lastname: Ade
authors.forename: Paolo
authors.initials: P
authors.lastname: de Bernardis
authors.forename: Peter
authors.initials: P
authors.lastname: de Maagt
authors.forename: Brian
authors.initials: B
authors.lastname: Ellison
authors.forename: Manju
authors.initials: M
authors.lastname: Henry
authors.forename: Ming Wah
authors.initials: MW
authors.lastname: Ng
authors.forename: Brian
authors.initials: B
authors.lastname: Schortt
authors.forename: Carole
authors.initials: C
authors.lastname: Tucker