Topological edge state bandwidth tuned by multiple parameters in two-dimensional terahertz photonic crystals with metallic cross structures.

Abstract

Originating from the study of topological photonic crystals (TPCs), analogues of the quantum spin Hall effect have been used as a potential way to control the propagation of electromagnetic waves. Due to the topological robustness of the spin TPCs, the edge states along the interface between the trivial and topological areas are topologically protected and not reflected from structural defects and disorders. Here, on the basis of the time-spatial reversal symmetry and topological defect theory, we demonstrate broadening of the edge state bandwidth in spin TPCs made of regular metallic cross structures by simultaneously deforming the hexagonal honeycomb lattice and adjusting the rotation angle. Due to the simultaneous tuning of the two parameters, the designed spin TPCs possess more flexibility. Topologically protected one-way propagating edge states are observed in the terahertz regime, where electromagnetic waves propagate along sharp corners without backscattering. Our findings offer the potential application for topological devices in terahertz technology and are beneficial for the development of 6G mobile communications.