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Originally published in Science Express on 12 July 2007
Science 17 August 2007:
Vol. 317. no. 5840, pp. 927 - 929
DOI: 10.1126/science.1143884
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Reports

Radiationless Electromagnetic Interference: Evanescent-Field Lenses and Perfect Focusing

R. Merlin

Diffraction restricts the ability of most electromagnetic devices to image or selectively target objects smaller than the wavelength. We describe planar subwavelength structures capable of focusing well beyond the diffraction limit, operating at arbitrary frequencies. The structure design, related to that of Fresnel plates, forces the input field to converge to a spot on the focal plane. However, unlike the diffraction-limited zone plates, for which focusing results from the interference of traveling waves, the subwavelength plates control the near field and, as such, their superlensing properties originate from a static form of interference. Practical implementations of these plates hold promise for near-field data storage, noncontact sensing, imaging, and nanolithography applications.

Department of Physics, The University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI 48109–1040, USA. Email: merlin{at}umich.edu

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THIS ARTICLE HAS BEEN CITED BY OTHER ARTICLES:
Time Reversal and Negative Refraction.
J. B. Pendry (2008)
Science 322, 71-73
   Abstract »    Full Text »    PDF »
Near-Field Plates: Subdiffraction Focusing with Patterned Surfaces.
A. Grbic, L. Jiang, and R. Merlin (2008)
Science 320, 511-513
   Abstract »    Full Text »    PDF »


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