Frequency and Field Strength Materials Characterization with Complementary Split-ring Resonators, Coplanar Waveguides, and the Virtual Ground Method

Abstract

In the radiofrequency bands, measuring the power-dependent complex permittivity and permeability of materials that undergo metal–insulator transitions is a significant challenge which is important for defense and commercial applications. This thesis attempts to articulate barriers in the prior art, and how the techniques described herein overcome such deficiencies. Specifically, using a combination of direct and indirect narrow-band resonant and wide-band, non-resonant heterostructures, with narrow gaps, application relevant electric fields were achieved, and complementary assessments of the measured S-parameters were determined. The heterostructures/fixtures include complementary split-ring resonator and coplanar waveguide instantiations. Additionally and complementary to the RF measurement systems, a ferroelectric test measurement system for high-frequency and high-power polarization vs. electric field curves was designed, built, tested, and shown to match baseline comparisons. The ferroelectric test system is a Sawyer–Tower variant using the virtual ground topology.