Intelligent Metasurfaces and Metamaterials: From Computational Design to Dynamic Absorption

Dear Colleagues,

Recent research in intelligent metasurfaces and metamaterials has shifted from static designs to dynamically tunable systems capable of real-time electromagnetic control. This evolution is largely driven by advances in computational modeling, including machine learning and optimization algorithms, which enable the inverse design of complex unit cells with tailored absorption properties. The integration of active elements—such as vanadium dioxide (VO₂), graphene, PIN diodes, and micro-electromechanical systems (MEMS)—has facilitated the development of reconfigurable metasurfaces that adapt to varying frequencies and incident angles.

These materials are increasingly applied in radar stealth, energy-efficient sensors, and next-generation wireless communications, where dynamic absorption minimizes interference and enhances signal integrity. Looking forward, the convergence of AI-aided design and programmable materials (e.g., phase-change and liquid-crystal-based meta-atoms) promises autonomous metamaterials that self-optimize in response to environmental changes. Future directions also include multi-physics metasurfaces that jointly control electromagnetic, thermal, and acoustic waves, opening new possibilities for multifunctional devices in aerospace, telecommunications, and energy harvesting.

We sincerely invite you to contribute to our Special Issue. Submissions are welcome in various forms, including but not limited to original research articles, reviews, and communications.

Dr. Yun He
Dr. Xun Ye
Guest Editors

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