Absorption in multiple-scattering systems of coated spheres

Area of Science:

• Optics and Photonics
• Materials Science
• Computational Physics

Background:

• Understanding light absorption in complex media is crucial for designing advanced optical materials.
• Multiple-coherent-scattering systems, particularly those involving coated spheres, present unique challenges for absorption modeling.
• Existing models may not fully capture absorption within individual components of heterogeneous scattering systems.

Purpose of the Study:

• To develop rigorous formulas for calculating absorption in multiple-coherent-scattering systems composed of multiply coated spheres.
• To provide methods for deducing total absorption and absorption within individual scatterers or coatings.
• To demonstrate applications in designing heterogeneous media with enhanced absorption properties.

Main Methods:

• Derivation of transfer matrix calculation formulas.
• Application to systems with multiply coated spheres (potentially non-concentric).
• Inclusion of absorbing materials in cores, coatings, or host media.

Main Results:

• Formulas for rigorous transfer matrix calculations of absorption are derived.
• The method allows for the deduction of total absorption via energy conservation in nonabsorbing host media.
• Detailed absorption within individual scatterers and coatings can be quantified.

Conclusions:

• The derived formulas provide a robust framework for analyzing absorption in complex coated-sphere scattering systems.
• These calculations are essential for the rational design of materials with tailored optical absorption.
• Illustrative applications highlight the potential for creating heterogeneous media with significantly enhanced absorption.