The surface mode supported by an asymmetrical waveguide containing left-handed materials

The propagating characteristics of surface mode supported by an asymmetrical three-layer waveguide containing left-hand materials are studied in detail. The forward and the backward surface modes have been identified respectively through the slope of dispersion curve and the total energy flux of the structure. Research shows that anti-symmetry mode corresponds to forward surface wave. Furthermore, to symmetry mode, the type of surface mode depends on the distribution of the electric field in the left-handed layer. It is found that, the conversion between backward surface wave and forward surface wave is realizable by varying the thickness of the left-handed layer and the permittivity of the substrate.