Exploring non-Hermitian wave dynamics in odd elastic metamaterials

Odd elastic metamaterials, enabled by nonreciprocal couplings implemented through active elements, break conventional symmetry constraints in density and elasticity tensors, giving rise to unconventional wave dynamics. These materials exhibit unique properties, including non-Hermiticity, 1D unidirectional wave amplification, 2D directional wave amplification, and topological phenomena such as skin modes. By redefining classical elasticity, odd elastic metamaterials open new avenues for wave manipulation, energy harvesting, and vibration control. This research emphasizes these materials’ underlying principles and physical implementations, laying the groundwork for future advancements in non-Hermitian physics and elastic mechanics.