Plasmonics at radio frequencies

Abstract

We demonstrate that low loss radio frequency plasmon-like surface electromagnetic waves may propagate along rough interfaces between air and highly conductive media, such as water or metal. Unlike the well-known Zenneck wave solutions, these surface waves have mode index larger than 1, so that their propagation properties are generally similar to the properties of surface plasmons in the visible frequency range. The wave impedance of these modes is derived, which demonstrates the need to use special plasmonic inducers or exciters for efficient generation of these novel surface electromagnetic modes. Propagation characteristics of these radio frequency plasmons were explored both experimentally and theoretically in the cases of water-air and water-ice-air interfaces, and the two-dimensional character of this propagation has been revealed. Other important applications of radio frequency plasmons were demonstrated, such as communication along metal infrastructure immersed in water, communication along a lake floor, underwater plasmonic radar, as well as plasmonic communications underground and in the dense jungles.