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Ultra-low threshold optical bistability assisted by merging bound states in the continuum
Optics Express
|November 11, 2025
Summary
We achieved ultra-low threshold optical bistability (OB) in silicon metasurfaces by merging bound states in the continuum (BICs). This breakthrough enables efficient all-optical devices with low power requirements.
Area of Science:
- Photonics and Nanotechnology
- Metamaterials and Plasmonics
Background:
- Optical bistability (OB) is crucial for all-optical switching and signal processing.
- Achieving OB at low light intensities remains a significant challenge in photonics.
Purpose of the Study:
- To demonstrate ultra-low threshold optical bistability in silicon metasurfaces.
- To explore the role of merging bound states in the continuum (BICs) in enhancing OB performance.
Main Methods:
- Designing silicon metasurfaces composed of periodic Si nanorods.
- Modulating nanorod height to realize merged BICs.
- Investigating the optical properties and bistability thresholds.
Main Results:
- Achieved optical bistability at an ultra-low intensity threshold of 100 W/cm².
- Merged BICs effectively suppressed radiation loss and enhanced quality factors (Q factors).
- Demonstrated enhanced local field confinement within the metasurface.
Conclusions:
- Silicon metasurfaces utilizing merged BICs offer a promising platform for ultra-low threshold OB.
- The demonstrated technology holds significant potential for developing efficient all-optical devices.
- This work paves the way for low-power optical computing and signal processing applications.
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