The recent review by Professors Hongsheng Chen and Chao Qian from Zhejiang University sheds light on the transformative potential of intelligent metasurfaces in wireless communication technologies. Published in Light Science & Applications, the study delves into how these advanced materials can actively modify communication environments through signal relay, transmission, and processing, offering a more efficient alternative to traditional methods.
Traditional wireless systems depend heavily on numerous active nodes to counteract signal loss, leading to high costs, energy use, and interference. Intelligent metasurfaces, however, utilize subwavelength meta-atoms that adapt autonomously to environmental changes, presenting a sustainable solution. The integration of deep learning algorithms enables these systems to predict and control electromagnetic scattering, paving the way for innovative signal management techniques.
This research underscores the capability of intelligent metasurfaces to enhance data rates within constrained spectral resources. Through experimental demonstrations, the team showcased how these materials can physically process signals and reshape communication environments. Despite the promising advancements, the review also points out the need for further research to overcome existing challenges for practical application.
Supported by grants from the Ministry of Science and Technology, the National Natural Science Foundation of China, and the Zhejiang Province Research and Development Program, this study marks a significant step toward sustainable wireless communication technologies. The findings highlight the importance of continued innovation in metasurface technology to address the growing demands for efficient and eco-friendly communication solutions.
