Switchable nonlinear metasurfaces for absorbing high power surface waves

We demonstrate a concept of a nonlinear metamaterial that provides power dependent absorption of incident surface waves. The metasurface includes nonlinear circuits which transform it from a low loss to high loss state when illuminated with high power waves. The proposed surface allows low power signals to propagate but strongly absorbs high power signals. It can potentially be used on enclosures for electric devices to protest against damage. We experimentally verify that the nonlinear metasurface has two distinct states controlled by the incoming signal power. We also demonstrate that it inhibits the propagation of large signals and dramatically decreases the field that is leaked through an opening in a conductive enclosure. (C) 2016 AIP Publishing LLC.