Experimental investigation on ultra-low power metamaterial for
back-scatter communication through Ice
Abstract
Wireless sensor networks and nodes are faced with severe constraints in
power capacity and lifespan, especially in harsh and cold environments.
Electromagnetic radiation energy harvesters serve as a promising
alternative power source for sensor nodes. However, the power output
from reported energy harvesters remains limited, emphasizing the
critical need to reduce power consumption in sensor nodes. In this
study, we propose a miniaturized low-voltage controllable metamaterial.
It is intended for 2.4 GHz wireless band and is capable of operating in
extremely adverse conditions, for instance, beneath the ice, while
requiring only 3.3 V control voltage and consumes about 0.3 μW energy.
Measurements in sub-ice environment demonstrate its outstanding
reflection control characteristics, making it highly suitable as a
backscatter communication node in wireless sensor networks in harsh
environments.