The Genesis of Metamaterials

Metamaterials are artificial materials engineered to have properties not found in naturally occurring materials. They are designed to interact with electromagnetic waves in ways that no natural material can. The concept of metamaterials was born in the late 1960s but it wasn’t until the 21st century that significant developments took place. Today, they are primarily used in the development of advanced optics, antennae and wireless charging technologies.

Metamaterials and Wireless Charging

Wireless charging isn’t a new concept. It’s been around for more than a century, with Nikola Tesla being the pioneer. However, the traditional form of wireless charging—inductive charging—is limited by range and efficiency. Metamaterials are changing this narrative. They enable the creation of ‘superlenses’ which can focus electromagnetic fields, thus amplifying the charging capabilities and extending the range of wireless charging significantly.

The Enterprising Ecosystem

Several companies are now exploring metamaterials for wireless charging. Leading the pack is a startup called ‘Energous’. They’ve developed a technology called ‘WattUp’, a radio frequency (RF) based scalable solution that offers both contact-based and over-the-air wireless charging. Another startup called ‘Ossia’ is creating a similar solution called ‘Cota’. These technologies are not yet mainstream, but they promise to revolutionize the way we power our devices.

Market Impact and Pricing

While it’s too early to accurately estimate the price range of metamaterial-based wireless charging devices, they’re likely to command a premium given the advanced technology involved. The impact on the market, however, could be substantial. As per a report by Market Research Future, the global wireless charging market is expected to reach $24 billion by 2023. The growth of metamaterials could significantly contribute to this market expansion.

The Future of Metamaterials

The future of metamaterials extends beyond wireless charging. Researchers are exploring their use in creating ‘invisibility cloaks’ by manipulating light waves. Additionally, metamaterials could also revolutionise the field of optics and antennae, making devices more compact and efficient.

Metamaterials are a fascinating and transformative technology. Their ability to manipulate electromagnetic waves is opening up new possibilities in wireless charging and beyond. While the technology is still in its nascent stages, the progress made so far is promising. As research continues and the technology matures, the day might not be too far when wireless charging becomes as ubiquitous as Wi-Fi.