Interacting waves on chains of split-ring resonators in the presence of retardation

Wave propagation is studied experimentally in a one-dimensional periodic chain of magnetically coupled split-ring resonators with a spacing of about one tenth of the resonant wavelength. Retardation leads to a strong interaction between magnetoinductive and free-space waves. Two kinds of guided modes are observed: a slow backward wave which propagates far outside the light cone, and a fast forward wave close to the light cone. The two merge in a region of zero group velocity. The results are relevant for all one- and two-dimensional periodic systems interacting with waves of the surrounding space.