arXiv subjects

Aurelien Merkel

Publications and source records attributed to Aurelien Merkel.

3 recordsLinked to original sources

arXiv2025

Acoustic scattering singularities via quasi-Bound states in the continuum

Non-Hermitian systems enable advanced control of wave propagation by exploiting engineered losses. This introduces an additional degree of freedom that permits the emergence of exceptional points (EPs). In this letter, we theoretically and experimentally demonstrate the control of scattering singularities in a non-Hermitian acoustic system using quasibound states in the continuum (qBICs). Through Friedrich Wintgen interference, the losses of a two port cavity are tuned until achieving critical coupling, yielding narrowband coherent perfect absorption (CPA) with a quality factor of 140. Additionally, by coupling two distinct resonators, we observe the emergence of an EP, where both eigenvalues simultaneously coalesce and vanish, resulting in narrowband unidirectional absorption. Our results establish a connection between qBICs and scattering singularities, and offer a route toward acoustic devices featuring narrowband resonances and tunable radiative losses.

physics.app-ph↗

arXiv2025

Parity Metamaterials and Dynamic Acoustic Mimicry

While parity transformation represents a fundamental symmetry operation in physics, its implications remain underexplored in metamaterial science. Here, we introduce a framework leveraging parity transformation to construct parity-inverted counterparts of arbitrary three-dimensional meta-atoms, enabling the creation of parity-engineered metamaterial slabs. We demonstrate that the synergy between reciprocity and parity transformation, distinct from mirror operation, guarantees undistorted wave transmission across exceptional bandwidths, independent of structural configuration or meta-atom design specifics. Furthermore, these metamaterials exhibit dynamic acoustic mimicry capability, enabling adaptive blending of reflected signatures into surrounding environments while preserving transmitted wavefront integrity. Validated through numerical simulations and experimental prototypes, this breakthrough offers transformative potential for acoustic camouflage applications, particularly for sonar systems. Our findings reveal fundamental implications of parity transformation in artificial materials, establishing parity engineering as a paradigm for designing ultra-broadband functional materials with unprecedented operational versatility.

cond-mat.mtrl-sci↗

arXiv2019

Ultrasonic nodal chains in topological granular metamaterials

Three-dimensional (3D) Weyl and Dirac semimetals garner considerable attention in condensed matter physics due to the exploration of entirely new topological phases and related unconventional surface states. Nodal line and ring semimetals on the other hand can facilitate 3D band crossings characterized by nontrivial links such as coupled chains and knots that are protected by the underlying crystal symmetry. Experimental complexities, detrimental effects of the spin-orbit interaction, along with the merging of the underlying surface states into the bulk pose great challenges for growing advancements, but fortunately enable other systems, such as bosonic lattices, as ideal platforms to overcome these obstacles. Here we demonstrate a 3D mechanical metamaterial made of granular beads, which is predicted to provide multiple intersecting nodal rings in the ultrasonic regime. By unveiling these yet unseen classical topological phases, we discuss the resilience of the associated novel surface states that appear entirely unaffected to the type of crystal termination, making them a superb platform in ultrasonic devices for non-destructive testing and material characterization.

cond-mat.mtrl-sci↗