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Updated: Jul 8, 2026
11:08
Fabrication And Characterization Of Photonic Crystal Slow Light Waveguides And Cavities
Published on: November 30, 2012
Polarization-dependent tunneling of light in gradient optics
A Shvartsburg1, V Kuzmiak, G Petite
1Science Technology Center for Unique Instrumentation, Russian Academy of Sciences, PO Box 117342, Butlerov Street 15, Moscow, Russia.
Summary
This study explores photonic barriers made of dielectric gradient nanofilms, revealing unique optical anisotropy. These barriers enable narrow-band tunneling for S-polarized waves and strong reflection for P-polarized waves, paving the way for advanced optical devices.
Area of Science:
- Photonics and Optics
- Materials Science
- Electromagnetism
Background:
- Gradient dielectric nanofilms create photonic barriers with unique optical properties.
- Nonlocal dispersion and spatial profiles of dielectric susceptibility influence wave propagation.
- Understanding reflection-refraction phenomena is crucial for optical device design.
Purpose of the Study:
- To examine the reflection-refraction properties of photonic barriers formed by dielectric gradient nanofilms.
- To develop generalized Fresnel formulas for S- and P-polarized electromagnetic waves at oblique incidence.
- To demonstrate the application potential for miniaturized polarizers and filters.
Main Methods:
- Utilizing exactly solvable models for electromagnetic wave interaction with gradient photonic barriers.
- Deriving generalized Fresnel formulas to describe reflectance and transmittance.
- Analyzing the effects of nonlocal dispersion and heterogeneity-induced optical anisotropy.
Main Results:
- Nonlocal dispersion leads to optical anisotropy, enabling S-wave tunneling and P-wave traveling.
- Narrow-band, nonattenuated tunneling of oblique S waves through heterogeneous barriers is possible.
- Spectral regions with strong P-wave reflection and significant S-P wave contrast were identified.
Conclusions:
- Gradient photonic barriers exhibit unique optical anisotropy due to nonlocal dispersion.
- These barriers facilitate selective wave propagation (tunneling vs. traveling) for different polarizations.
- The findings support the development of miniaturized polarizers and filters based on these phenomena.
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