Optical-phase demodulation using zero-index metamaterials.

Abstract

We theoretically demonstrate that zero-index materials junction with three ports can realize functions of optical interferometer in optical phase demodulator to finish a critical step of phase demodulation. When the junction is made up of ε-near-zero (ENZ) materials, performances of the proposed structure get worse due to impedance mismatch, which result in distortion and decrease of final demodulation outputs. To improve performances, three approaches including narrowing the ENZ junction, embedding proper defect, and using anisotropy ENZ junction are proposed. Our work provides an effective way for optical phase demodulation based on zero-index metamaterials.