Minimization of losses in a structure having a negative index of refraction

A structure consisting of an array of wires cladded with a nonmagnetic dielectric and embedded in a ferrimagnetic host has been calculated to have a negative index of refraction. The structure has moderate losses over a bandwidth of a few GHz. The calculation takes into account the skin effect within the wires and is valid provided the wavelength of electromagnetic waves in the structure is long compared to the radius of the cladded wires. The structure's electromagnetic response is accurately described by the ferrimagnet's permeability and a permittivity derived in the long wavelength limit. Losses can be minimized by choosing the pass band to be between 30 and 80% of the plasma frequency and by choosing wires to be of the highest possible conductivity and largest radius compatible with the required plasma frequency.