Nonlinearity vs nonlocality with emphasis on bandwidth broadening in semiconductor-based 1d metamaterials

Area of Science:

• Nonlinear optics
• Materials science
• Condensed matter physics

Background:

• Conventional optical materials exhibit weak inherent nonlinearity, limiting applications.
• Novel materials and structures offer design freedom but face challenges in enhancing nonlinear properties.
• One-dimensional (1D) plasmonic metamaterials show promise for advanced optical functionalities.

Purpose of the Study:

• To explore broadband enhancement of nonlinearity in 1D plasmonic metamaterials.
• To investigate the connection between nonlinearity enhancement and nonlocality.
• To develop a framework for quantifying nonlinear susceptibility in multiphase plasmonic nanostructures.

Main Methods:

• Introduced a phenomenological framework to quantify effective third-order nonlinear susceptibility.
• Utilized heavily doped semiconductors in 1D multiphase plasmonic nanostructures.
• Applied the framework using realistic material parameters for direct and inverse problems.

Main Results:

• Demonstrated significant augmentation of third-order nonlinear susceptibility over a defined frequency range.
• Quantified the impact of nonlocality on nonlinearity enhancement.
• Showcased the potential of engineered plasmonic nanostructures for strong nonlinear optical responses.

Conclusions:

• Broadband enhancement of nonlinearity is achievable in 1D plasmonic metamaterials.
• Nonlocality plays a crucial role in modulating nonlinear optical responses.
• The developed framework provides a pathway for designing materials with tailored nonlinear properties.