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Updated: Feb 5, 2026
12:18
Microwave Photonics Systems Based on Whispering-gallery-mode Resonators
Published on: August 5, 2013
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Universal switching of plasmonic signals using optical resonator modes
Cillian Pt McPolin1, Nicolas Olivier1,2, Jean-Sebastien Bouillard1,3
1Department of Physics, King's College London, Strand, London WC2R 2LS, UK.
Light, Science & Applications
|September 1, 2018
Summary
We developed a new method to control plasmonic signals using Fano interference. This technique allows for dynamic modulation of surface plasmon polaritons (SPPs) via mechanical or all-optical means.
Area of Science:
- Plasmonics
- Optical physics
- Nanophotonics
Background:
- Surface plasmon polaritons (SPPs) are essential for nanoscale light manipulation.
- Controlling SPP signals dynamically is crucial for advanced photonic devices.
- Fano interference offers a route to sharp spectral features and sensitive signal modulation.
Purpose of the Study:
- To propose and investigate a novel mechanism for switching and modulating plasmonic signals.
- To demonstrate dynamic control of SPP waves via Fano interference.
- To explore mechanical, all-optical, and electro-optical modulation schemes for SPP signals.
Main Methods:
- Experimental investigation of Fano interference between a Fabry-Pérot cavity and an SPP source.
- Mechanical modulation of cavity length to alter SPP emission.
- All-optical modulation utilizing ultrafast nonlinearity of gold (Au) mirrors.
- Numerical and analytical calculations to support experimental findings.
Main Results:
- Achieved dynamic SPP modulation with ~80% efficiency via mechanical control.
- Demonstrated ultrafast all-optical modulation with 30% efficiency at 0.6 THz.
- Experimental observations were corroborated by theoretical calculations.
Conclusions:
- The proposed Fano interference mechanism enables effective switching and modulation of plasmonic signals.
- Both mechanical and all-optical methods provide viable routes for dynamic SPP control.
- The study highlights the potential for THz-rate modulation in plasmonic devices.
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