Photonic crystals as metamaterials

Thread starter physics_hp
Start date Jun 7, 2016
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Crystals Metamaterial Photonic Photonics Quantum optics

In summary, photonic crystals are materials with a periodic arrangement of dielectric or metallic components on the scale of light wavelength, allowing for control and manipulation of light. They are used as metamaterials by designing specific arrangements to exhibit unique optical properties not achievable with traditional materials. Advantages of using photonic crystals as metamaterials include nanoscale manipulation, tunability, and cost-effective fabrication. Potential applications include advanced optical devices and sensing applications. Challenges in utilizing photonic crystals as metamaterials include achieving precise control over their properties and integration with other materials and devices. Further research and development are needed to fully harness their potential.

Jun 7, 2016

physics_hp

Why do some photonic crystals show metamaterial property?

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Jun 7, 2016

ZapperZ

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physics_hp said:

Why do some photonic crystals show metamaterial property?

Because they have an optical band gap... or is that too simple of an answer for a too-simple of a question?

Zz.

1. What are photonic crystals?

Photonic crystals are materials that have a periodic arrangement of dielectric or metallic components on a scale comparable to the wavelength of light. This results in the ability to manipulate and control the propagation of light, making them ideal for use in various applications such as optical sensing, telecommunications, and solar energy harvesting.

2. How are photonic crystals used as metamaterials?

Metamaterials are artificial materials with unique properties that are not found in nature. By designing and creating photonic crystals with specific arrangements and dimensions, they can exhibit extraordinary optical properties such as negative refraction, superlensing, and cloaking. These properties are not achievable with traditional materials, making photonic crystals a promising avenue for developing advanced metamaterials.

3. What are the advantages of using photonic crystals as metamaterials?

Photonic crystals offer several advantages as metamaterials, including the ability to manipulate light at the nanoscale, high tunability, and low loss in certain frequency ranges. Additionally, they can be fabricated using cost-effective techniques such as lithography and self-assembly, making them more accessible for commercial applications.

4. What are some potential applications of photonic crystals as metamaterials?

There are numerous potential applications for photonic crystals as metamaterials, including advanced optical devices such as superlenses, optical filters, and high-efficiency solar cells. They can also be used in sensing applications, such as biosensors and environmental sensors, due to their ability to detect small changes in the surrounding optical environment.

5. What are the current challenges in utilizing photonic crystals as metamaterials?

One of the main challenges in using photonic crystals as metamaterials is the difficulty in achieving precise control over their properties, as small changes in the design or fabrication process can significantly alter their performance. Additionally, the integration of photonic crystals with other materials and devices can be complex and require advanced techniques. Further research and development are needed to address these challenges and fully harness the potential of photonic crystals as metamaterials.