Abstract
The paper presents a novel concept for the on-chip integration of a multilayer platform sustaining Bloch surface waves further enhanced by the so-called slot waveguide effect. Through simulations, we demonstrate that a carefully designed polymer waveguide arrangement coated with a subwavelength dielectric multilayer can be efficiently used to first excite a Bloch surface wave at the surface of the multilayer and second to enhance this wave and allow longer propagation of the surface mode by constructive superimposition of two evanescent tails inside a narrow gap.
Highlights
Bloch surface waves (BSWs) have already shown their potential as probes in sensing experiments [1,2,3]
A wave that is partially transmitted through a one-dimensional photonic crystal illuminated under an incidence angle greater than the critical angle is trapped between the two media and can only propagate along the surface
In addition to the different thicknesses involved in the structure, the angle of incidence has to be taken into account and is used to adjust the wavelength of the BSW mode at λ = 488 nm
Summary
Bloch surface waves (BSWs) have already shown their potential as probes in sensing experiments [1,2,3]. The great advantages of such electromagnetic surface waves come from the all-dielectric platform on which they are generated [4] and from the long propagation length they offer compared to surface plasmon polaritons [5]. A wave that is partially transmitted through a one-dimensional photonic crystal illuminated under an incidence angle greater than the critical angle is trapped between the two media and can only propagate along the surface. It has been demonstrated that exceptionally long propagation lengths can be achieved, that BSWs can be controlled using loading-strip on top of the platform, and that waveguides, ring resonators, photonic crystals, and gratings [6,7,8,9] can be used to control the direction and properties of these waves. No efficient on-chip solutions exist to excite a BSW so that the field is accessible for applications such as sensing
Sign-in/Register to view highlights & summary Sign-in/Register to access full text options 
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Schedule a call
