materials

Article
A New Compact Double-Negative Miniaturized
Metamaterial for Wideband Operation
Md. Mehedi Hasan 1 , Mohammad Rashed Iqbal Faruque 1, *, Sikder Sunbeam Islam 1 and
Mohammad Tariqul Islam 2
1 Space Science Center (ANGKASA), Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia, 43600 UKM, Bangi, Selangor, Malaysia;
mehedi20.kuet@gmail.com (M.M.H.); sikder_islam@yahoo.co.uk (S.S.I.)
2 Department of Electrical, Electronic and Systems Engineering, Universiti Kebangsan Malaysia, 43600 UKM,
Bangi, Selangor, Malaysia; tariqul@ukm.edu.my
* Correspondence: rashed@ukm.edu.my; Tel.: +603-8911-8486

Academic Editor: Jorge de Brito

Received: 1 September 2016; Accepted: 28 September 2016; Published: 13 October 2016

Abstract: The aim of this paper is to introduce a compact double-negative (DNG) metamaterial that
exhibits a negative refractive index (NRI) bandwidth of more than 3.6 GHz considering the frequency
from 2 to 14 GHz. In this framework, two arms of the designed unit cell are split in a way that
forms a Modified-Z-shape structure of the FR-4 substrate material. The finite integration technique
(FIT)-based Computer Simulation Technology (CST) Microwave Studio is applied for computation,
and the experimental setup for measuring the performance is performed inside two waveguide ports.
Therefore, the measured data complies well with the simulated data of the unit cell at 0-degree and
90-degree rotation angles. The designed unit cell shows a negative refractive index from 3.482 to
7.096 GHz (bandwidth of 3.61 GHz), 7.876 to 10.047 GHz (bandwidth of 2.171 GHz), and 11.594 to
14 GHz (bandwidth of 2.406 GHz) in the microwave spectra. The design also exhibits almost the
same wide negative refractive index bandwidth in the major region of the C-band and X-band if it is
rotated 90 degrees. However, the novelty of the proposed structure lies in its effective medium ratio
of more than 4, wide bandwidth, and compact size.

Keywords: dual band; double-negative metamaterial; effective medium ratio; wide bandwidth

1. Introduction
Metamaterials are artificially electromagnetic materials consisting of periodically arranged
metallic components that are smaller than the wavelength of the incident electromagnetic (EM)
wave in size. Furthermore, the materials can control electromagnetic wave beams in astonishing
ways and exhibit various exterior electromagnetic properties that are not obtainable in the nature.
These extraordinary properties unequivocally rely on the geometry of the metamaterial’s atomic
structure. Metamaterials with concurrent negative permittivity (ε < 0) and permeability (µ < 0) are
called double-negative (DNG) metamaterials. When the permeability and permittivity of a material
are equivalent to zero over a specific frequency range, then it is known as a near-zero refractive index
metamaterial (NZRI). However, if the material’s properties exhibit either negative permittivity or
negative permeability, it is identified as a single-negative (SNG) metamaterial. Veselago et al. [1]
recommended a new type of material that exhibited negative permittivity and negative permeability
as well as general characteristics of an electromagnetic wave in 1968. Veselago’s institution stayed
quiet for a long time until Pendry et al. [2] presented their summary of a thin-wire configuration that
displayed a negative estimation of permittivity (ε) in 1996 and a split ring resonator with a negative
estimation of permeability (µ) in 1999. Later, Smith et al. [3] exhibited a new type of metamaterial
that showed simultaneous negative permittivity and permeability, and he completed microwave

Materials 2016, 9, 830; doi:10.3390/ma9100830 www.mdpi.com/journal/materials

Materials 2016, 9, 830 2 of 12

examinations to test its unusual properties in 2000. Because of these intriguing electromagnetic
properties, metamaterials can be utilized as a part of numerous important applications, such as
super-lenses, waveguides, filters [4], antenna design [5,6], invisibility cloaking [7], reduction of
SAR [8], electromagnetic absorbers, and electromagnetic band gaps [9]. At present, multi-band
metamaterials or arrays of metamaterials with wide negative refractive index bandwidths have
become a promising methodology for specialists, although very few studies have concentrated
on designing such materials [10–12]. Intrinsic negative permittivity can be found in some metals,
but a natural medium with negative permeability is harder to find. Even using artificial structures, it is
relatively difficult to realize negative permeability. As a result, simultaneous negative refractive
indexes (ε < 0 and µ < 0) are very difficult to obtain. Numerous alphabetical metamaterial
structures have been proposed for particular applications; for instance, Benosman et al. [13] proposed
a double “S-shape” metamaterial in the microwave range, which showed a negative refractive index
from 15.67 to 17.43 GHz. Mallik et al. [14] introduced a rectangular “U-shape” metamaterial that
displayed left-handed attributes at approximately 5, 6, and 11 GHz for various array structures.
Ekmekci et al. [15] presented a “V-shape” metamaterial, and the structure exhibited double-negative
attributes at 8.10 GHz. Riwan et al. [16] designed an “F-shape” DNG metamaterial for K- and Ka-band,
which had a 2.3-GHz negative refractive index bandwidth from 22.5 GHz to 24.8 GHz. An “S-shape”
15 × 15-mm2 chiral metamaterial was designed by Zhou et al. [17] for X- and Ku-band, but the shape’s
effective medium ratio was less than 4. Islam et al. [18] proposed an “H-shape” metamaterial for
multiband microwave applications, and negative index qualities were seen in the C (bandwidth of
0.5 GHz) and S (bandwidth of 0.3 GHz) bands. The dimensions of the metamaterial unit cell were
30 × 30 mm2 . Hossain et al. [19] presented two “G-shape” double-negative metamaterials for different
unit cells and array sizes, which were appropriate for the S- and C-band. Moreover, Alam et al. [20]
designed an 8 × 8-mm2 “Hexagonal-shape” double-negative medium metamaterial, for which the
refractive index regions were obtained from 1.68 to 3.43 GHz (bandwidth of 1.75 GHz) and 5.04 to
6.0 GHz (bandwidth of 0.96 GHz).
In this study, the designed Modified-Z-shape structure exhibits resonance at C- and X-bands with
a wider negative refractive index bandwidth from 3.482 to 7.096 GHz (bandwidth of 3.61 GHz), 7.876 to
10.047 GHz (bandwidth of 2.171 GHz), and 11.594 to 14 GHz (bandwidth of 2.406 GHz), which is
a larger bandwidth than that of [19,20]. Moreover, the proposed structure’s dimension is 10 × 10 mm2 ,
which is quite a bit smaller than the metamaterial unit cell presented in [17,18]. As a result, the effective
medium ratio of the unit cell is more than 4, and it is suitable for operating the sub-wavelength
regime. Moreover, double-negative metamaterial properties appear at 8.79 GHz for unit cells and
in case of array configurations at 8.60 GHz. The commercially available electromagnetic simulator
CST Microwave Studio has been used to monitor the reflection coefficient (S11 ) and transmission
coefficient (S21 ) to determine the effective permittivity, permeability, and refractive index for the
proposed metamaterial structure. The paper is organized in the following manner. Construction of the
proposed unit cell is described in Section 2. The methodology is explained in Section 3. An equivalent
circuit model is discussed in Section 4. Experimental results are elaborately explained in Section 5,
and Section 6 concludes this paper.

2. Proposed Unit-Cell Construction

The diagram of the proposed Modified-Z-shape unit cell configuration is specified in Figure 1.
The developed structure consists of a Z-shape split ring resonator of copper with a thickness (h) of
0.035 mm. FR-4 is used as the substrate material, which has a dielectric constant of 4.5 and loss tangent
of 0.002. The length (l) and width (w) of the unit cell metal strip are both 8 mm. However, the width (d)
of every metal strip is 0.5 mm, and the split width (g) is 0.5 mm. In this paper, CST Microwave Studio,
which is based on the finite integration technique (FIT), is adopted to investigate this design in which
an incident electromagnetic wave travels along the positive z-axis to the negative z-axis. The schematic
and a fabricated diagram of the proposed design are illustrated in Figure 1a,b. Table 1 demonstrates,
Materials 2016, 9, 830 3 of 12

the design parameters of the proposed metamaterial unit cell, where a, b, t are respectively the substrate
material width,
Materials 2016, 9,length
830 and height. 3 of 12

Materials 2016, 9, 830 3 of 12

Table
Table 1.1.Design
Designspecification
specification of
of the
theZ-shape
Z-shapeunit
unitcell.
cell.
Parameters Dimensions
Table (mm) Parameters
1. Design specification of the Z-shapeDimensions
unit cell. (mm)
Parameters Dimensions (mm) Parameters Dimensions (mm)
a 10 d 0.5
Parameters Dimensions (mm) Parameters Dimensions (mm)
a b 1010 gd 0.5 0.5
b al 1010
8
dg
t
0.5
1.6 0.5
l wb 810 gt 0.5 1.6
8 h 0.035
w l 88 th 1.6 0.035
w 8 h 0.035

(a) (b)

Figure 1. Metamaterial unit cell: (a) proposed geometry; (b) fabricated geometry.
(b)
(a) unit cell: (a) proposed geometry;
Figure 1. Metamaterial (b) fabricated geometry.
Figure 1. Metamaterial unit cell: (a) proposed geometry; (b) fabricated geometry.
3. Methodology
3. Methodology
The commercially available, finite integration technique (FIT)-based CST Microwave Studio
3. Methodology
The commercially
was utilized available,
to calculate finite integration
the scattering parameters. technique (FIT)-based
The structure CST Microwave
is placed inside Studio was
the two waveguide
The commercially available, finite integration technique (FIT)-based CST Microwave Studio
utilized to calculate the scattering parameters. The structure is placed inside the
ports on the positive and negative z-axis. The ideal electric conductor boundary condition was two waveguide
was utilized to calculate the scattering parameters. The structure is placed inside the two waveguide
ports on the positive
characterized anddividers
along the negative z-axis. Thetoideal
perpendicular electric
the x-axis, conductor
the dividers boundary to
perpendicular condition
the y-axis was
ports on the positive and negative z-axis. The ideal electric conductor boundary condition was
are characterized
characterized as perfect
along the dividersmagnetic conductor
perpendicular to boundaries, anddividers
the x-axis, the a frequency domain solver
perpendicular was
to the y-axis
characterized along the dividers perpendicular to the x-axis, the dividers perpendicular to the y-axis
utilized for
are characterized free-space
as as simulation
perfect purposes (shown in Figure 2). Furthermore, a tetrahedral mesh
are characterized perfectmagnetic
magneticconductor boundaries,and
conductor boundaries, anda afrequency
frequency domain
domain solver
solver waswas
withfor
utilized anfree-space
adaptive mesh scheme was used for the proposed unit cell and aarray configuration
utilized for free-space simulation purposes (shown in Figure 2). Furthermore, a tetrahedral meshwith
simulation purposes (shown in Figure 2). Furthermore, tetrahedral mesh
investigation
an adaptive purposes. The used
standardized impedance was
cellset to 50 ohms, and the investigation
operating
with an mesh scheme
adaptive meshwas scheme wasfor the proposed
used for the unit
proposed and
unitarray
cell configuration
and array configuration
frequency was set from 2 to 14 GHz.
purposes. The standardized
investigation purposes. The impedance was set
standardized to 50 ohms,
impedance wasandsetthetooperating
50 ohms,frequency was set from
and the operating
2 to frequency
14 GHz. was set from 2 to 14 GHz.

Figure 2. Simulation setup of the proposed Z-shape unit cell for CST Microwave Studio (CST MWS)
in a free-space environment.
Figure 2. Simulation setup of the proposed Z-shape unit cell for CST Microwave Studio (CST MWS)
Figure 2. Simulation setup of the proposed Z-shape unit cell for CST Microwave Studio (CST MWS) in
in a free-space environment.
The reflection
a free-space (S11) and transmission (S21) coefficients of the metamaterial unit cell and arrays
environment.
were investigated to understand the electromagnetic properties of the proposed structures. The
The reflection (S11) and transmission (S21) coefficients of the metamaterial unit cell and arrays
restoration of the effective medium ratio depends on the unit cell dimension, and the wave length
The reflection
were investigated(S11to) and transmission
understand (S21 ) coefficients
the electromagnetic of the metamaterial
properties unit cell
of the proposed and arrays
structures. Thewere
needs to be less than the working wavelength in the media [21]. Now, the reflection coefficient ( )
restoration
investigated of the effective
to understand medium ratio depends on the unit cell dimension, and the wave
the electromagnetic properties of the proposed structures. The restoration length
can be determined as follows:
needs
of the to be medium
effective less than ratio
the working
depends wavelength
on the unitincell
the dimension,
media [21]. and
Now,thethewave
reflection
length needs to(be) less
coefficient
( − 1) (1)
thancan
thebeworking
determined as follows:
wavelength = Now, the reflection coefficient (Γ) can be determined
in the media [21].
( + 1)
as follows: ( − 1) (1)
= ( z − 1)
is the relative impedance for effective (
= + 01)
Γ permittivity and permeability: (1)
( z0 + 1)
is the relative impedance for effective permittivity and permeability:
Materials 2016, 9, 830 4 of 12

z0 is the relative impedance for effective permittivity and permeability:

Materials 2016, 9, 830 4 of 12
r
µr
z0 = (2) (2)
= εr

The scattering parameters S11 and S21 can be expressed as follows:

The scattering parameters S11 and S21 can be expressed as follows:
2


(1 −1 − )Γ z (3)
S11== (3)
1 −1 − Γ2 z2

2


(1 −1 −)z Γ (4)
S21== (4)
1 −1 − Γ2 z2
Now,Sfrom S11 and S21,
Now, from 11 and S21 ,
V =S +S (5)
V1 = S121 + S21
11, and
11
(5)
V 2 = S21 − S11 (6)
V2 = S21 − S11 (6)
The Nicolson–Ross–Weir approach is utilized to separate the effective permittivity (ε r ) and
The Nicolson–Ross–Weir approach is utilized to separate the effective permittivity ( ) and
permeability (µr ) from S21 and S11 . Thus, the effective permittivity and permeability can be
permeability ( ) from S21 and S11. Thus, the effective permittivity and permeability can be
calculated by
calculated by
c (1 − V1 )
εr = × (7)
jπ f d(1 − (1)+ V1 ) (7)
= ×
(1 + )
c (1 − V2 )
µr = × (8)
jπ f d(1 − (1)+ V2 )
(8)
= ×
However, the Direct Refractive strategy was(1 + )for the effective refractive index (ηr ), which is
used
calculated from the transmission coefficient (S21 usedreflection
)
However, the Direct Refractive strategy was and coefficient
for the effective (S11
refractive ) [22]:
index ( ), which is
calculated from the transmission coefficient (S
v21) and reflection coefficient (S11) [22]:
u (S21 − 1)2 − S2
u( )
c 11 (9)
ηr = ×t
( − 1) − 2 (9)
= jπ f d× (S21 + 1) − S2
( + 1) − 11

For measurement
For measurement purposes, aa prototype
purposes, prototype ofofa 10
a ×1010-mm
× 10-mm 2 unit
2 unit cell was cell
fabricated.
was The
fabricated.
measurements were performed in an open-space environment by placing the prototype inside the
The measurements were performed in an open-space environment by placing the prototype inside the
waveguide shown in Figure 3. An Agilent N5227A vector network analyzer was utilized to
waveguide shown in Figure 3. An Agilent N5227A vector network analyzer was utilized to determine
determine the scattering parameters of the modified-Z-shape unit cell. Moreover, an Agilent
the scattering parameters
N4694-60001 of the
was used for modified-Z-shape
calibration purposesunit
so cell. Moreover,
that the an Agilent
measurements were N4694-60001
performed was
used foraccurately.
calibration purposes so that the measurements were performed accurately.

Figure 3. Experimental
Figure 3. Experimentalsetup
setup for measuring
measuring thethe S-parameters.
S-parameters.

4. Equivalent Circuit Model of the Proposed Unit-Cell

Because the proposed metamaterial structure consists of passive inductive-capacitive (LC) circuits,
the resonance frequency (f ) is
1
f = √ (10)
2π LC
Materials 2016, 9, 830 5 of 12

where L and C are the aggregate inductance and capacitance of the structure. In the proposed
formation, inductances are formed by the metal strip and the capacitances are formed by the splits.
Electric resonances are produced by coupling between the gaps and electric fields when the applied
Materials 2016, 9, 830 5 of 12
electromagnetic wave propagates along the structure. Moreover, magnetic resonances are formed
by the coupling between
4. Equivalent the Model
Circuit magnetic
of the fields and
Proposed loops. Typically, from quasi-static theory, the total
Unit-Cell
capacitance betweenBecause thethegaps is, metamaterial structure consists of passive inductive-capacitive (LC)
proposed
circuits, the resonance frequency (f) is A
C = ε 0 ε r ( F) (11)
1 d (10)
=
In addition, the total inductance (L) for the2π√
proposed structure can be estimated from [23–25] as
where L and C are the aggregate inductance and capacitance of the structure. In the proposed
formation, inductances are formed
 by the metal strip and qthe capacitances are formed by the splits.
h)2 the gaps
d + g +between
 2by(coupling
Electric resonances are produced (2w and + h)2fields
+ gelectric + l 2when
 the applied
L = 0.01 × µ 0
electromagnetic wave propagates along the structure.+ t (12)
 (2w + g + h)2 Moreover, (dmagnetic
+ g + hresonances
) are formed by
the coupling between the magnetic fields and loops. Typically, from quasi-static theory, the total
capacitance between the gaps is,
Therefore, the total capacitance (C) can be (11)
= calculated
( ) by
In addition, the total inductance
" (L) for the proposed structure can be estimated from [23–25] as
 #
(2w + g + h ) 2
2( + + ) ln (2 + + ) +
( d + g + h ) (12)
C= =0.01ε 0× 2+
t (13)
(2 (+
2π d ++h)) ( +( a+− )l )

Therefore, the total capacitance (C) can be calculated by

where the free-space permeability (µ0(2) is+ 4π+ ×) 102(−7+H/m + )
and the free-space permittivity (13) (ε0 ) is
8.854 × 10 − 12 F/m. = ln
2π( + ) ( − )
For widewhere
negative refractive index bandwidth,
the free-space permeability (µ0) is 4π × 10 H/m the
−7 series
and and shunt branch
the free-space of the
permittivity (ε0)unit
is cell circuit
form inductance
8.854 ×and
10−12capacitance.
F/m. The splits maintain the capacitive effect and are denoted as C1, C2,
C3, C4, and C5 inForthe wide negative refractive index bandwidth, the series and shunt branch of the unit cell
circuit. Alternately, the metal strips are responsible for the inductance effect and
circuit form inductance and capacitance. The splits maintain the capacitive effect and are denoted as
are named L1, L2, and
C1, C2, C3, C4, L3.and
The addition
C5 in ofAlternately,
the circuit. more splits in the
the metal unit
strips arecell structure
responsible produces
for the inductance a small phase
delay and increases the total capacitance of that metamaterial unit cell. The equivalentacircuit of the
effect and are named L1, L2, and L3. The addition of more splits in the unit cell structure produces
small phase delay and increases the total capacitance of that metamaterial unit cell. The equivalent
proposed metamaterial structure is given in Figure 4.
circuit of the proposed metamaterial structure is given in Figure 4.

Figure 4. Equivalent LC circuit model of the proposed unit cell.

Figure 4. Equivalent LC circuit model of the proposed unit cell.
5. Results and Discussion

5. Results and Discussion

There are numerous techniques for effective parameter extraction of a metamaterial, such as the
Nicolson–Ross–Weir strategy, Direct Refractive Index, etc. In this paper, the electromagnetic
There are numerous
properties of thetechniques for effective
proposed metamaterial parameter
are clarified extraction
utilizing of a metamaterial,
the real values of the effective such as the
permittivity, permeability, and refractive index, which are calculated from S11 and S21.
Nicolson–Ross–Weir strategy, Direct Refractive Index, etc. In this paper, the electromagnetic properties
of the proposed metamaterial
5.1. Unit Cell Analysis are clarified utilizing the real values of the effective permittivity,
permeability, andTherefractive index,
current density which
of the areatcalculated
unit cell shownSin
11.84 GHz is from and S5a.21The
11Figure . currents flow in
opposite directions in the metal strip of the Z-shape unit cell structure because of the dissimilar
5.1. Unit Cell Analysis
The current density of the unit cell at 11.84 GHz is shown in Figure 5a. The currents flow in
opposite directions in the metal strip of the Z-shape unit cell structure because of the dissimilar
geometry of the unit cell structure. In the resonator, the opposite current follows the inner and
outer surfaces, which causes the stop band at this frequency. In Figure 5b, both the numerical and
experimental magnitudes of the S-parameters are shown. The figure shows dual-band resonance
at 7.32 GHz and 11.84 GHz in the transmission coefficient (S21 ) curve. The measured result
Materials 2016, 9, 830 6 of 12

geometry
Materials of9,the
2016, 830unit cell structure. In the resonator, the opposite current follows the inner and outer 6 of 12
surfaces, which causes the stop band at this frequency. In Figure 5b, both the numerical and
experimental magnitudes of the S-parameters are shown. The figure shows dual-band resonance at
presents
7.32 GHzresonance
and 11.84atGHz 7.53inGHz (C-Band) andcoefficient
the transmission 12.02 GHz(S(X-Band)
21) curve. in
Thethemeasured
same figure.
resultHowever,
presents
the measured transmittance
resonance at 7.53 GHz (C-Band) (S ) results are slightly shifted and shortened, when compared
21 and 12.02 GHz (X-Band) in the same figure. However, the measured with the
simulated
transmittance results.
(S21) This shift
results areusually
slightlyoccurs
shifted due to shortened,
and the free-space whenmeasurement
compared withprocessthe or various
simulated
fabrication errors.
results. This shift usually occurs due to the free-space measurement process or various fabrication errors.
Figure
Figure 5c 5c shows
shows the the negative
negative permeability
permeability fromfrom 8.13
8.13 to
to 14
14 GHz
GHz for
for 0-degree
0-degree rotation
rotation and and from
from
8.344
8.344 toto 14
14 GHz
GHz for for 90-degree
90-degree rotation.
rotation. AtAt aa lower
lower frequency,
frequency, thethe current
current can
can keep
keep pace
pace withwith the
the
applied field; however, at higher frequencies, the current cannot cope with
applied field; however, at higher frequencies, the current cannot cope with the applied field and the applied field and
starts
starts to
to lag
lag in
in the
the frequency
frequency range
range when
when thethe permeability
permeability is is negative.
negative. Figure
Figure 5d
5d shows
shows the the negative
negative
permittivity
permittivity fromfrom4.054
4.054toto10.372
10.372GHz GHzandand13.388
13.388toto14.441
14.441GHzGHzfor 0-degree
for 0-degree rotation
rotationandandfrom
from 4.405
4.405to
7.98 GHz, 8.76 to 10.398 GHz, and 12.556 to 12.803 GHz for 90-degree rotation.
to 7.98 GHz, 8.76 to 10.398 GHz, and 12.556 to 12.803 GHz for 90-degree rotation. Here, it reveals thatHere, it reveals that
there
there is
is variation
variation between
between the the properties
properties ofof permeability
permeability andand permittivity
permittivity because
because ofof the polarization
the polarization
effect
effect due to the interior construction of the materials. When electromagnetic waves enter unequal
due to the interior construction of the materials. When electromagnetic waves enter unequal
lattice
lattice axes
axesofofanisotropic
anisotropic materials,
materials,the the
properties are affected
properties by the by
are affected polarization inside the
the polarization material.
inside the
As a result,
material. Asthe valuesthe
a result, of permeability and permittivity
values of permeability change due
and permittivity to changes
change due toinchanges
the design.
in the However,
design.
the refractive
However, theindex curveindex
refractive is also affected
curve byaffected
is also the polarization via the same
by the polarization viaprocedure.
the same procedure.

(a) (b)

(c) (d)
Figure 5.
5. (a) Surface current
(a) Surface current density
density at
at 11.84
11.84 GHz;
GHz; (b)
(b) SS21 curve for the Z-shape unit cell; the real
Figure 21 curve for the Z-shape unit cell; the real
magnitude ofof(c)(c)thethe
magnitude effective
effective permeability
permeability andthe
and (d) (d)effective
the effective permittivity
permittivity of a and
of a 0-degree 0-degree and
90-degree
90-degree rotated
rotated unit cell. unit cell.

If the unit cell permittivity and permeability appear negative simultaneously, then the
If the unit cell permittivity and permeability appear negative simultaneously, then the refractive
refractive index curve will be negative. Figure 6 shows a negative refractive index from 3.482 to
index curve will be negative. Figure 6 shows a negative refractive index from 3.482 to 7.096 GHz
7.096 GHz (bandwidth of 3.61 GHz), 7.876 to 10.047 GHz (bandwidth of 2.171 GHz), and 11.594 to
(bandwidth of 3.61 GHz), 7.876 to 10.047 GHz (bandwidth of 2.171 GHz), and 11.594 to 14 GHz
14 GHz (bandwidth of 2.406 GHz) for 0-degree rotation and from 3.885 to 7.642 GHz (bandwidth of
(bandwidth of 2.406 GHz) for 0-degree rotation and from 3.885 to 7.642 GHz (bandwidth of 3.757 GHz),
3.757 GHz), 8.162 to 10.216 GHz (bandwidth of 2.055 GHz), and 11.152 to 14 GHz (bandwidth of
8.162 to 10.216 GHz (bandwidth of 2.055 GHz), and 11.152 to 14 GHz (bandwidth of 2.848 GHz)
2.848 GHz) for 90-degree rotation of the unit cell. Therefore, the designed unit cell has characteristics
for 90-degree rotation of the unit cell. Therefore, the designed unit cell has characteristics of
of a double-negative metamaterial because the refractive index, permittivity, and permeability
a double-negative metamaterial because the refractive index, permittivity, and permeability curves
curves have negative peaks at 8.79 GHz, which is shown in Table 2.
have negative peaks at 8.79 GHz, which is shown in Table 2.
Materials 2016, 9, 830 7 of 12
Materials 2016, 9, 830 7 of 12
Materials 2016, 9, 830 7 of 12

Figure
Figure 6.6.Real
Figure6. Real magnitude
Realmagnitude of
magnitudeof the
ofthe refractive
therefractive index
refractive index (η) vs.
index (η) vs. the
thefrequency
the frequencyofof
frequency ofthe
the0-degree
the 0-degreeand
0-degree and90-degree
and 90-degree
90-degree
rotated
rotated unit
rotatedunit cell.
unitcell.
cell.

5.2. Metamaterial
5.2.Metamaterial Arrays
MetamaterialArrays Configurations
ArraysConfigurations
Configurations
5.2.
Three types
Threetypes ofofarrays
typesof are
arraysare investigated
areinvestigated
investigated in in this
in this section, and
and allofofthe
the arrayconfigurations
configurations are
Three arrays this section,
section, and all
all of thearray
array configurationsareare
called open
calledopen arrays
openarrays because
arraysbecause the
becausethe unit
theunit cells
unit cells are not connected
cells are connected witheacheach other.TheThe effectivemedium
medium
called not connected with
with each other.
other. Theeffective
effective medium
parameters
parametersofofofarrays are
arraysare measured
are measured
measured and and investigated
and investigated
investigated by by 0-degree andand 90-degreerotation
rotation of the
parameters arrays by 0-degree
0-degree and90-degree
90-degree rotationofofthe
the
metamaterial
metamaterial structure.
structure.
metamaterial structure.
5.2.1.11 1×
5.2.1.
5.2.1. × ×111Array
ArrayAnalysis
Array Analysis
Analysis
Figure7a
Figure
Figure 7ashows
7a showsthe
shows the
the111××1×
1 array
array
1 arraygeometry
geometry
geometry at 0-degree
0-degree rotation.
at 0-degreerotation. The
Themagnitudes
rotation. magnitudes ofofthe
The magnitudes theeffective
effective
of the
permeability
permeability and
and permittivity
permittivity of
of the
the Z-shape
Z-shape unit
unit cell
cell are
are plotted
plotted inin Figure
Figure
effective permeability and permittivity of the Z-shape unit cell are plotted in Figure 7b,c, respectively. 7b,c,
7b,c,respectively.
respectively. InIn
Figure7b,
Figure 7b,negative
negativepermeability
permeability is is exhibited
exhibited from
from 7.928
7.928 to
to 14
14 GHz
GHz for
for 0-degree
0-degree rotation
rotation andandfrom
from
In Figure 7b, negative permeability is exhibited from 7.928 to 14 GHz for 0-degree rotation and from
7.688toto1414GHz
7.688 GHzforfor90-degree
90-degreerotation.
rotation. Figure
Figure 7c depicts
depicts negative
7c depicts negativepermittivity
permittivityfrom from 3.904 toto 7.652 GHz,
7.688 to 14 GHz for 90-degree rotation. Figure 7c negative permittivity from 3.904
3.904 to 7.652
7.652 GHz,
GHz,
8.396
8.396 toto 8.888
8.888 GHz,
GHz, and
and 9.036
9.036 to
to 10.34
10.34 GHz
GHz for
for 0-degree
0-degree rotation
rotation and
and from
from 4.22
4.22 toto7.40
7.40GHz,
GHz, 7.796 to to
7.796
8.396 to 8.888 GHz, and 9.036 to 10.34 GHz for 0-degree rotation and from 4.22 to 7.40 GHz, 7.796 to
9.512GHz,
9.512 GHz,11.372
11.372toto11.984
11.984GHz,GHz, and and 13.328
13.328 to 13.916
to 13.916 GHz
GHzfor
13.916 GHz for90-degree
90-degreerotation.
rotation.
9.512 GHz, 11.372 to 11.984 GHz, and 13.328 to for 90-degree rotation.
Figure7d
Figure 7dexpresses
expressesthe themagnitude
magnitude of of the
the refractive
refractive index
index(η) (η)vs.
vs.frequency
frequencyfrom from3.383.38toto
to7.34 GHz
7.34 GHz
Figure 7d expresses the magnitude of the refractive index (η) vs. frequency from 3.38 7.34 GHz
(bandwidth
(bandwidth of
of 3.96
3.96 GHz),
GHz), 7.80
7.80 to
to 10.256
10.256 GHz
GHz (bandwidth
(bandwidth of
of 2.456
2.456 GHz),
GHz), 11.132
11.132 toto12.524
12.524 GHz
GHz
(bandwidth of 3.96 GHz), 7.80 to 10.256 GHz (bandwidth of 2.456 GHz), 11.132 to 12.524 GHz
(bandwidth of 1.392 GHz), and 13.268 to 14 GHz (bandwidth of 0.732 GHz) for 0-degree rotation and
(bandwidth of
(bandwidth of 1.392 GHz),
GHz), andand 13.268
13.268 to to 14
14 GHz
GHz (bandwidth
(bandwidth of 0.732 0.732 GHz)
GHz) forfor 0-degree
0-degree rotation
rotation andand
from 3.752 to1.3927.124 GHz (bandwidth of 3.372 GHz), 7.592 to of 9.536 GHz (bandwidth of 1.944 GHz),
from
from 3.752 to 7.124 GHz (bandwidth of 3.372 GHz), 7.592 to 9.536 GHz (bandwidth of 1.944 GHz),
and3.752
9.944 to
to 7.124
14 GHz GHz (bandwidth
(bandwidth of 3.372
of 4.056 GHz) GHz), 7.592 to 9.536
for 90-degree GHz
rotation. (bandwidth
The 0-degree and of 1.944 GHz),
90-degree
and 9.944
and 9.944 toto 14
14 GHz
GHz (bandwidth
(bandwidth of of 4.056
4.056 GHz)
GHz) for for 90-degree
90-degree rotation.
rotation. TheThe 0-degree
0-degree and and 90-degree
90-degree
1 × 1 arrays exhibit almost the same bandwidth from 3 to 10 GHz. In addition, between 7.592 GHz
11 ×
× 11 arrays
and arrays exhibitalmost
10.256exhibit
almostthe
GHz, the negative
thesamesamebandwidth
bandwidth from
from
regions of the refractive
3 10
3 to to 10
GHz.
index,
GHz. In addition,
In addition,
permittivity and
between
between 7.5927.592
permeability GHz GHz
and
curves
and
10.256 10.256
GHz, GHz,
the the
negativenegative
regions regions
of the of the
refractive refractive
index, index,
permittivity permittivity
and and permeability
permeability curves curves
display
display negative peaks. As a result, the proposed array structure appears to be a double-negative
display negative
negative peaks. Aspeaks. Asthe
a result, a result,
proposed thearray
proposed array
structure structure
appears to beappears to be a double-negative
a double-negative metamaterial.
metamaterial.
metamaterial.

(a) (b)
(a) (b)
Figure 7. Cont.
Materials 2016, 9, 830 8 of 12
Materials 2016, 9, 830 8 of 12

Materials 2016, 9, 830 8 of 12

(c) (d)
Figure 7. (a) 0-degree position of the 1 × 1 array geometry; real magnitude of (b) the effective
Figure 7. (a) 0-degree
permeability; (c) the effective of the 1 × 1and
positionpermittivity; array
(d) geometry; real
the effective magnitude
refractive indexofat(b) the effective
0-degree and
permeability; (c) the effective
90-degree rotations of the 1(c) permittivity; and (d)
× 1 array configuration. the effective refractive index at 0-degree and
(d)
90-degree rotations of the 1 × 1 array configuration.
5.2.2. 2 ×Figure
2 Array 7. (a) 0-degree position of the 1 × 1 array geometry; real magnitude of (b) the effective
Analysis
permeability;
5.2.2. 2 × 2 Array Analysis (c) the effective permittivity; and (d) the effective refractive index at 0-degree and
For90-degree
investigative rotations purposes,
of the 1 × 1thearray2 configuration.
× 2 array configuration was rotated 90 degrees, as seen in
Figure
For 8a. The same methodology
investigative purposes, the was2× applied
2 array to configuration
obtain the effective medium90
was rotated parameters
degrees, as fromseenthein
Figure5.2.2.
arrays 8a. 2 ×The
2 Array
structure sameatAnalysis
0-degree
methodology and 90-degree
was applied rotations.
to obtainThe the realeffective
magnitudes mediumof permeability
parameters and from
permittivity
the arraysFor of the 2at× 0-degree
structure
investigative 2 array are
purposes, and revealed
2 × 2 in
the90-degree Figure
array 8b,c. Figure
rotations. The real
configuration was8b’s permeability
magnitudes
rotated curve as displays
of permeability
90 degrees, seen in and a
resonance
permittivity from
Figure 8a.ofThe 7.892 GHz to
2 × 2methodology
thesame 14 GHz,
array are revealed which
was applied contains
in Figure a bandwidth
8b,c.
to obtain theFigure of
effective8b’s more than 6
permeability
medium GHz,
parameters for
curve 0-degree
fromdisplays
the
rotation
arraysand
a resonance fromfrom
structure 7.94
7.892 at GHzGHzto
0-degree to1414 GHz,
GHz,
and also covering
which
90-degree contains more
rotations. a The than
real6magnitudes
bandwidth GHz, for 90-degree
of more than rotation.
6 GHz,
of permeability From
for 0-degree
and
Figure 8c,
permittivityit isof evident
the 2 × 2that
array the
are permittivity
revealed in curves
Figure exhibit
8b,c. Figure
rotation and from 7.94 GHz to 14 GHz, also covering more than 6 GHz, for 90-degree rotation. a negative
8b’s magnitude
permeability curve from
displays3.86 a to
7.796 GHz,
resonance 8.036
from to 8.708
7.892 GHz GHz,
to 14 9.62
GHz, to 10.448
which GHz,
contains and
a 11.528
bandwidth
From Figure 8c, it is evident that the permittivity curves exhibit a negative magnitude from 3.86 to of11.708
more for
than 0-degree
6 GHz, forrotation
0-degree andto
fromrotation
4.22 and
to from
7.928 7.94
GHz, GHz
8.312 to 14
to GHz,
8.864 also
GHz, covering
9.836 more
to than
10.628
7.796 GHz, 8.036 to 8.708 GHz, 9.62 to 10.448 GHz, and 11.528 to 11.708 GHz for 0-degree rotation 6 GHz,
GHz, for
and 90-degree
11.336 to rotation.
11.648 From
GHz for
Figure
90-degree 8c, it
rotation. is evident
However, that the
twoto permittivity
bandwidths, curves exhibit a negative magnitude from 3.86 to
and from 4.22 to 7.928 GHz, 8.312 8.864 GHz,3.936 9.836GHz for 0-degree
to 10.628 GHz, and rotation
11.336 andto 3.708
11.648GHz GHzfor for
7.796 GHz,
90-degree 8.036 are
rotation, to 8.708
worth GHz, 9.62 to 10.448
mentioning in theGHz, and 11.528
permittivity to 11.708
curve. It was formentioned
0-degree rotation
earlier and
in this
90-degree rotation. However, two bandwidths, 3.936 GHz for 0-degree rotation and 3.708 GHz for
from
paper 4.22
that to 7.928 GHz,
a material’s 8.312 to
refractive 8.864curve
index GHz,would9.836 to
be 10.628
negative GHz, and
if its 11.336 to 11.648
permittivity GHz for
and permeability
90-degree rotation,
90-degree rotation. areHowever,
worth mentioning
two in the 3.936
bandwidths, permittivity
GHz for curve.
0-degree It was mentioned
rotation and 3.708 earlier
GHz for in this
appeared negative simultaneously.
paper90-degree
that a material’s refractive index curve would be negative if its permittivity and permeability
In Figurerotation,
8d, the are worth mentioning in the permittivity curve. It was mentioned earlier in this
material shows negative peaks from frequencies of 3.656 to 6.176 GHz, 6.668 to
appeared
papernegative simultaneously.
that a material’s refractive index curve would be negative if its permittivity and permeability
7.628 GHz, 7.856 to 10.544 GHz, 10.772 to 12.08 GHz, and 13.40 to 14 GHz that respectively cover
In Figurenegative
appeared 8d, the material shows negative peaks from frequencies of 3.656 to 6.176 GHz, 6.668 to
simultaneously.
bandwidths of 2.52 GHz, 0.96 GHz, 2.688 GHz, 1.308 GHz, and 0.60 GHz in the microwave regime at
7.628 GHz, In Figure
7.856 to 8d,10.544
the material
GHz,shows10.772 negative
to 12.08 peaks
GHz,from andfrequencies
13.40 to 14 of 3.656
GHztothat 6.176 GHz, 6.668 tocover
respectively
0-degree rotation. The same applies for the frequencies of 3.752 to 6.344 GHz, 6.668 to 7.82 GHz, 7.94
7.628 GHz,
bandwidths 7.856GHz,
of 2.52 to 10.5440.96GHz,
GHz,10.772 2.688toGHz,12.081.308
GHz,GHz,and 13.40
and to 0.6014 GHz
GHz thatin therespectively
microwave cover
regime
to 11.84 GHz, and
bandwidths of 12.356
2.52 GHz, to 14GHz,
0.96 GHz2.688 that GHz,
respectively
1.308 GHz,cover
and 2.592
0.60 GHz,
GHz in 1.152
the GHz, 3.90
microwave GHz,atand
regime
at 0-degree rotation. The same applies for the frequencies of 3.752 to 6.344 GHz, 6.668 to 7.82 GHz,
1.644 GHz bandwidths
0-degree rotation. The in sametheapplies
microwave for theregion for 90-degree
frequencies of 3.752 torotation of 6.668
the array configuration.
7.94 to 11.84the
Moreover, GHz, 2 × and
2 array 12.356 to 14has
structure GHz that respectively
characteristics of a cover6.344
2.592
double-negative
GHz,
GHz, to 7.82
1.152
metamaterial
GHz, 7.94
GHz, 3.90GHz
at 8.60 GHz,
to 11.84 GHz, and 12.356 to 14 GHz that respectively cover 2.592 GHz, 1.152 GHz, 3.90 GHz, and
and
for1.644
both GHz
0-degree bandwidths
and 90-degree in therotation.
microwave region for 90-degree rotation of the array configuration.
1.644 GHz bandwidths in the microwave region for 90-degree rotation of the array configuration.
Moreover, the 2 × 2 array structure has characteristics of a double-negative metamaterial at 8.60 GHz
Moreover, the 2 × 2 array structure has characteristics of a double-negative metamaterial at 8.60 GHz
for both 0-degree
for both 0-degree andand 90-degree
90-degree rotation.
rotation.

(a) (b)
(a) (b)

Figure 8. Cont.
Materials 2016, 9, 830 9 of 12
Materials 2016, 9, 830 9 of 12
Materials 2016, 9, 830 9 of 12

(c) (d)
Figure 8. 90-degree
(a) 90-degree rotated(c) (d)
Figure 8. (a) rotated 2 ×22×array
2 array geometry;
geometry; thethe
realreal magnitude
magnitude of (b)
of (b) thethe permeability;
permeability; (c) the
(c) the permittivity; and (d) the refractive index of the 90-degree rotated 2 × 2 array configuration.
Figure 8. (a)
permittivity; and90-degree rotated 2 index
(d) the refractive × 2 array geometry;
of the 90-degreethe 2 × 2 arrayofconfiguration.
real magnitude
rotated (b) the permeability;
(c) the permittivity; and (d) the refractive index of the 90-degree rotated 2 × 2 array configuration.
5.2.3. 4 × 4 Array Analysis
5.2.3. 4 × 4 Array Analysis
5.2.3. 4In× Figure
4 Array9,Analysis
the permeability, permittivity, and refractive index for 0-degree and 90-degree
In Figure
rotation 9, the
of the 4 ×permeability,
4 array structure permittivity, and refractive
are depicted. From Figure index
9a, for 0-degree
negative and 90-degree
permeability is shownrotation
of the In ×Figure 9, the permeability, permittivity, and refractive index for 0-degree and 90-degree
from 7.94 to 14 GHz, covering almost 6.06 GHz in bandwidth, for 0-degree rotation, and from 7.928from
4 4 array structure are depicted. From Figure 9a, negative permeability is shown
rotation
7.94 of thecovering
4 × 4 array structure are depicted. From Figure 9a, negative permeability is shown
toto1414GHz,
GHz, covering more almost
than 66.06
GHzGHz in bandwidth,
bandwidth, at 90-degree for rotation.
0-degree rotation,
Moreover, and from
Figure 9b shows7.928 to
from
14 GHz, 7.94 to
covering14 GHz, covering
more fromthan 3.764 almost
6 GHz 6.06 GHz in bandwidth, for 0-degree rotation, and from 9b 7.928
negative permittivity to bandwidth,
7.64 GHz, 8.456 at 90-degree
to 9.044 GHz, rotation.
9.176 to Moreover,
9.50 GHz,Figure
and 9.596 shows
to
to 14 GHz, covering more than 6 GHz bandwidth, at 90-degree rotation. Moreover, Figure 9b shows
negative
10.076 permittivity
GHz for 0-degree fromrotation
3.764 toand 7.64 GHz,
from 3.8248.456 to 9.044
to 7.664 GHz,GHz,8.468 9.176
to 8.876to GHz,
9.50 GHz, and
9.044 to 9.596 to
10.268
negative permittivity from 3.764 to 7.64 GHz, 8.456 to 9.044 GHz, 9.176 to 9.50 GHz, and 9.596 to
GHz,
10.076 GHz andfor
11.336 to 11.648
0-degree GHzand
rotation for from
90-degree
3.824rotation.
to 7.664 Figure 9c reveals
GHz, 8.468 the GHz,
to 8.876 real magnitude of theGHz,
9.044 to 10.268
10.076 GHzindex
refractive for 0-degree
(η) vs. rotation from
frequency and from3.26 to3.824
7.364 toGHz,
7.6647.82
GHz,
to 8.468 GHz,
10.004 to 8.876and GHz,
10.8329.044
to 14 toGHz,
10.268
and 11.336 to 11.648 GHz for 90-degree rotation. Figure 9c reveals the real magnitude of the refractive
GHz, and 11.336
respectively to 11.648
covering GHz forof90-degree
bandwidths 4.104 GHz,rotation.GHz, Figure 9c3.168
reveals the real magnitude of the
index (η) vs. frequency from 3.26 to 7.364 GHz, 7.822.184
to 10.004 GHz,and and GHz10.832forto0-degree
14 GHz, rotation,
respectively
refractive
and from index (η) vs.
3.404 to 7.148 frequency
GHz,GHz, from
7.8322.184 3.26
to 10.004 to 7.364
GHz, GHz, 7.82 to 10.004 GHz, and 10.832 to 14 GHz,
covering bandwidths of 4.104 GHz, andand 3.16810.832
GHztofor 14 0-degree
GHz, covering refractive
rotation, and from index 3.404
respectively covering bandwidths of 4.104 GHz, 2.184 GHz, and
bandwidths of 3.744 GHz, 2.172 GHz, and 3.168 GHz for the 90-degree rotated array structure. 3.168 GHz for 0-degree rotation,
to and
7.148 GHz,
from 3.404 7.832 to 10.004
to 7.148here GHz, GHz,
7.832 and 10.832 to 14 GHz, covering refractive index bandwidths indexof
Therefore, it is notable that one to 10.004 GHz,
bandwidth and 10.832
is greater than 4 toGHz 14 and
GHz, covering
that refractive
all of the bandwidths
3.744 GHz, 2.172 GHz,
bandwidths and 3.168 GHz for the
and90-degree rotated array structure. Therefore, it is notable
are almost of in 3.744
the sameGHz, 2.172
range GHz,
for both 3.168
the GHz
0-degree for the
and 90-degree
90-degree rotated
rotations array
of thestructure.
array
here that
Therefore, one bandwidth
it is notable
configuration. Finally,here
is greater
the that
than 4 GHz
one bandwidth
Z-shape
and
structure also
that
is greater all of the bandwidths
thancharacteristics
exhibits 4 GHz and that are
of all
almost
a of
in the same
the bandwidths
double-negative
range
are for both the
almost inatthe
metamaterial 0-degree
8.60same
GHz, e.g.,and
range 90-degree
in 1for rotations
both2 ×the
× 1 and of
0-degree
2 array the array
and 90-degree rotations of the Z-shape
configurations. configuration. Finally, the array
structure also exhibits
configuration. characteristics
Finally, the Z-shapeof structure
a double-negative
also exhibits metamaterial at 8.60of
characteristics GHz, e.g., in 1 × 1 and
a double-negative
2× 2 array configurations.
metamaterial at 8.60 GHz, e.g., in 1 × 1 and 2 × 2 array configurations.

(a) (b)

(a) (b)

(c)
Figure 9. Real magnitude of (a) the effective permeability; (b) the effective permittivity; and (c) the
refractive index of the 90-degree rotated 4 × 4 array configuration.
(c)
Figure
Figure 9. 9. Realmagnitude
Real magnitudeofof(a)
(a)the
theeffective
effective permeability;
permeability; (b)
(b) the
the effective
effectivepermittivity;
permittivity;and
and(c)(c)the
the
refractive index of the 90-degree rotated 4 × 4 array configuration.
refractive index of the 90-degree rotated 4 × 4 array configuration.
Materials 2016, 9, 830 10 of 12

Table 2. Real values of ε, µ, and η in the resonance frequency band for the unit cell and array
configuration at 0-degree and 90-degree rotation.

Value of Value of Value of Refractive

Frequency Rotation Metamaterial
Structure Permittivity Permeability Refractive Index
(GHz) Angle Type
(ε) (µ) Index (η) Bandwidth
0-degree −8.35 −34.04 −16.92 3.61 GHz
Unit cell 8.79 DNG
90-degree −6.43 −34.16 −24.91 3.57 GHz
1×1 0-degree −5.45 −29.83 −13.19 3.96 GHz
8.60 DNG
Array 90-degree −2.31 −35.08 −9.06 4.05 GHz
2×2 0-degree −0.68 −45.04 −5.55 2.68 GHz
8.60 DNG
Array 90-degree −2.63 −34.47 −9.53 3.90 GHz
4×4 0-degree −4.17 −31.75 −12.80 4.10 GHz
8.60 DNG
Array 90-degree −4.66 −31.01 −12.94 3.74 GHz

Table 2 represents the value of effective medium parameters for unit cell and array configurations.
Here, there are some differences in the parameter values between the 0-degree and 90-degree rotation
angles, but the unit cell and arrays configuration are exhibited double-negative characteristics at
8.79 GHz and 8.60 GHz, respectively. Moreover, the effective medium parameter values of the 4 × 4
array structure are almost the same for both the 0-degree and 90-degree rotation angles.
From Table 3, Mallik et al. [14] analyzed the 1 × 1 and 2 × 2 arrays in an orthogonal position.
In addition, Islam et al. [18] presented 1 × 1 and 2 × 2 array structures in his framework. Further,
Hossain et al. [19] showed a 2 × 2 array configuration at an open and interconnecting position.
However, in this paper, 1 × 1, 2 × 2 and 4 × 4 open array configurations were analyzed for 0-degree
and 90-degree rotation, which is a new type of analysis from the previous work.

Table 3. Comparison of the proposed metamaterial array structures with the previous array analysis.

Author Name Year MMs Shape Array Analysis

Mallik et al. [14] 2013 U 1 × 1, 2 × 2 orthogonal array
Islam et al. [18] 2014 H 1 × 1, 2 × 2 array
Hossain et al. [19] 2015 G 2 × 2 open & interconnect array
1 × 1, 2 × 2, 4 × 4 open array for
Proposed Design 2016 Z
0-degree & 90-degree rotation

6. Conclusions
In this paper, a new Modified-Z-shape negative refractive index (NRI) metamaterial unit cell
and array structure are presented, exhibiting a wider bandwidth in the major portion of C- and
X-bands with double-negative (DNG) characteristics. For calculation of the transmission (S21 ) and
reflection (S11 ) coefficients of the unit cell and array configurations, CST Microwave Studio was used.
The proposed metamaterial is able to exhibit a negative region with a bandwidth greater than 3.6 GHz,
which is better than the reference prototype. Similarly, the 4 × 4 array also displays a negative index
region with a bandwidth greater than 4 GHz if the proposed structure is rotated 90 degrees. Moreover,
C- and X-bands are widely used for satellite communications, especially in many GEO satellites,
which are designed to operate in the C-band area. Moreover, the C-band is applicable to modern
radio communication, satellite TV networks, and so on. In addition, the X-band is relevant in the
military, government, and civil institutions for weather radar monitoring, air and maritime vessel
traffic control, defense tracking, and vehicle speed detection for law enforcement. Finally, the proposed
double-negative metamaterial unit cell has potential for wider bandwidths in the case of negative
refractive index applications in addition to the other metamaterials in the microwave frequency range.

Acknowledgments: This work was supported by the Ministry of Education (MOE) under Fundamental Research
Grant Scheme Top Down, Code: FRGS TOP DOWN/2014/TK03/UKM/01/1 and Research Universiti Grant,
Dana Impak Perdana Code: DIP-2015-014.
Materials 2016, 9, 830 11 of 12

Author Contributions: Md. Mehedi Hasan made substantial contributions to conception, design, and
analysis. Mohammad Rashed Iqbal Faruque participated in the critical revision of the article for important
intellectual content. Sikder Sunbeam Islam and Mohammad Tariqul Islam provided necessary instructions for
experimental purposes.
Conflicts of Interest: The authors declare no conflict of interest.

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