Experimental and Theoretical Realization of Zenneck Wave-based Non-Radiative, Non-Coupled Wireless Power Transmission

A decade ago, non-radiative wireless power transmission re-emerged as a promising alternative to deliver electrical power to devices where a physical wiring proved to be unfeasible. However, existing approaches are neither scalable nor efficient when multiple devices are involved, as they are restricted by factors like coupling and external environments. Zenneck waves are excited at interfaces, like surface plasmons and have the potential to deliver electrical power to devices placed on a conducting surface. Here, we demonstrate, efficient and long range delivery of electrical power by exciting non-radiative waves over metal surfaces to multiple loads. Our modeling and simulation using Maxwell’s equation with proper boundary conditions shows Zenneck type behavior for the excited waves and are in excellent agreement with experimental results. In conclusion, we physically realize a radically different power transfer system, based on a wave, whose existence has been fiercely debated for over a century.