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Published on: November 30, 2012
Terahertz wave switch based on silicon photonic crystals
Jiusheng Li1, Jinlong He, Zhi Hong
1Centre for THz Research, China Jiliang University, Hangzhou 310018, China. lijsh2008@126.com
Applied Optics
|August 7, 2007
Summary
This study introduces a compact silicon photonic crystal switch for terahertz waves. It utilizes an electric field to dynamically shift the photonic bandgap, achieving a high extinction ratio.
Area of Science:
- Photonics
- Terahertz (THz) technology
- Semiconductor devices
Background:
- Terahertz (THz) waves offer unique properties for sensing and communication.
- Photonic crystals provide a platform for controlling light propagation.
- Integrated photonic devices are crucial for miniaturization.
Purpose of the Study:
- To propose a novel compact and integrated terahertz (THz) wave photonic crystal switch.
- To demonstrate the operation principle based on dynamic photonic bandgap shifting.
- To analyze the performance using established numerical methods.
Main Methods:
- Plane wave expansion (PWE) method for band structure analysis.
- Finite-difference time-domain (FDTD) method for device simulation.
- Silicon-on-insulator (SOI) platform for integration.
Main Results:
- Successful design of a compact THz photonic crystal switch.
- Demonstration of dynamic bandgap shift via applied electric field.
- Achieved a high extinction ratio of 29.9 dB.
Conclusions:
- The proposed silicon photonic crystal switch is a viable solution for THz applications.
- The dynamic bandgap shift mechanism enables efficient switching.
- The high extinction ratio indicates excellent on/off performance.

