Polarisation and wavelength selective transmission through nanohole structures with multiple grating geometry

Nemanya Sedoglavich,Sergey Rubanov,Rainer Kunnemeyer,John C Sharpe

doi:10.1364/oe.16.005832

Abstract

Excitation and localization of surface plasmon polariton modes in metal-dielectric structures can be utilized to construct nanophotonic materials and devices with tuneable optical dispersion. We present a selective polariton generator (SPG) device that demonstrates switching of light transmission based on surface plasmon antennae principles. This polarization-sensitive structure selectively generates and transports polaritons of a desired wavelength through subwavelength apertures. Two of these SPGs have been combined around a nanohole into a new, single device that allows polarization and wavelength selective switching of transmission. The multi-state operation is confirmed by experiment results.

Highlights

Since Ebbesen’s first report of extraordinary optical transmission through nano-hole arrays in metal films [1], there has been significant interest in understanding and utilizing the interactions of nano-geometries on metal-dielectric interfaces
We present a selective polariton generator (SPG) device that demonstrates switching of light transmission based on surface plasmon antennae principles
This polarization-sensitive structure selectively generates and transports polaritons of a desired wavelength through subwavelength apertures. Two of these SPGs have been combined around a nanohole into a new, single device that allows polarization and wavelength selective switching of transmission

Summary

Introduction

Since Ebbesen’s first report of extraordinary optical transmission through nano-hole arrays in metal films [1], there has been significant interest in understanding and utilizing the interactions of nano-geometries on metal-dielectric interfaces Predominant to this phenomenon is the role of surface waves such as surface plasmons (SP), which are electromagnetic waves trapped at a metallic surface through their interaction with the free electrons of the metal. A number of groups have extensively researched and characterised the properties of circular SP antennae [12, 13] In these theoretical and experimental studies the effects of variables such as corrugation period and depth have been well defined.

Materials and methods

Circular surface plasmon antennae

Single surface plasmon generators

Paired single plasmon generators

Conclusion