Metamaterials Manufacturing: Pathway to Industrial Competitiveness

Abstract

Metamaterials are artificially structured materials with the promise to remove performance constraints associated with conventional materials, redefining the boundaries of materials science and offering a wealth of new opportunities for innovation and economic growth. The prospects are powerful. National security applications of metamaterials range from enhanced stealth technology to improved military communication to higher-quality reconnaissance imaging to next-generation body armor. Health implications range from greatly improved medical imaging and research tools to superior injury protection products. Metamaterials also have promising energy applications in transportation light-weighting, as well as energy generation and storage technologies. By 2025, it is estimated that metamaterials manufacturing will be a multi-billion-dollar market. The United States has invested heavily in the potential of metamaterials, and U.S. experts and research facilities lead the world in publications, citations, and intellectual property related to this emerging field. Realizing the true benefits of these emerging technologies—and return on federal investments—will require advancing metamaterials from prototypes to products manufactured at scale. Manufacturing of these materials at the volume and quality needed for practical applications requires process innovation and establishment of a strong supporting ecosystem. This report examines the challenges and opportunities facing metamaterials manufacturing and presents a set of actionable recommendations for realizing the promised impact.