The Internet of Materials

State-of-the-art, flat structures called metasurfaces can filter and steer light and sound, render an object completely invisible to electromagnetic waves, and much more. They can deliver automation, remote operation, and advanced performance to a wide variety of existing systems, with applications in communications, medical imaging, sensing, and security.

However, for non-specialists, individual metasurfaces are currently restricted to limited reusability and accessibility. This book brings together various scientific disciplines with the aim of outlining a programmable ‘plug-and-play’ metasurface.

The book focuses on a recently proposed platform – known as the HyperSurface – that provides many electromagnetic functions of metasurfaces in a single structure, which can be controlled and reconfigured by software. This revolutionary approach paves the way for new opportunities in wireless communications and programmable wireless environments: HyperSurfaces could link networks with objects and physical environments and create smarter systems that are far more responsive to user demands. Walls that absorb radiation or block digital eavesdropping, and wireless, long-distance charging of devices are among the many possibilities.

The book aspires to provide the foundational knowledge for creating an Internet of Materials, enabling smart environments at any scale – from indoor wireless communications to medical imaging equipment. Although the set of disciplines involved covers a considerable span, we hope that the material will benefit experts and students alike.