Active elastic metamaterials for zero-frequency and zero-wave-number band gaps
Phys. Rev. Applied 25, 014027 – Published 12 January, 2026
DOI: https://doi.org/10.1103/ynnm-619n
Abstract
This paper is a contribution to the Physical Review Applied collection titled Phononics and Metamaterials.
We create wave-matter stimuli-responsive metamaterials using optical trapping forces to manipulate mass-spring chains and create zero-frequency and zero-wave-number band gaps: the bosonic nature of phonons, and hence this elastodynamic setting, traditionally prohibits either zero-frequency or zero-wave-number band gaps. Here we generate zero-frequency band gaps using optomechanical interactions within a three-dimensional mass-spring chain by applying an optical trapping force to hold or manipulate a mass in a contactless manner independent of its elastodynamic excitations. Through careful modification of the geometrical parameters in the trapped monoatomic mass-spring chain, we demonstrate the existence of a zero-frequency band gap generated by the optical forces on the masses. The precise control we have over the system allows us to drive another set of masses and springs out of phase with its traveling wave, thereby creating a zero-wave-number band gap. This paper is a contribution to the Physical Review Applied collection titled Phononics and Metamaterials.
Physics Subject Headings (PhySH)
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Phononics and Metamaterials
Physical Review Applied is pleased to present a Collection on Phononics and Metamaterials, in which diverse developments in research on sound waves are gathered to offer a comprehensive view of both the state of the art and the challenges ahead. The Collection is dedicated to the memory of Dr. Sarah Benchabane (1980–2024), honoring her outstanding contributions to phononics and wave physics. Contributions to this Collection will be published beginning in 2025 and continuing into 2026. This Collection is being curated by Guest Editors Muamer Kadic, Daniel Torrent, and Abdelkrim Khelif.
