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Surface phonon polaritons for infrared optoelectronics
Journal article   Open access   Peer reviewed

Surface phonon polaritons for infrared optoelectronics

Christopher R. Gubbin, Simone De Liberato and Thomas G. Folland
Journal of applied physics, Vol.131(3), p.30901
01/21/2022
DOI: 10.1063/5.0064234
url
https://doi.org/10.1063/5.0064234View
Published (Version of record) Open Access

Abstract

In recent years, there has been significant fundamental research into surface phonon polaritons, owing to their ability to compress light to extremely small dimensions, low losses, and the ability to support anisotropic propagation. In this Perspective, after briefly reviewing the present state of mid-infrared optoelectronics, we will assess the potential of surface phonon polariton-based nanophotonics for infrared (3-100 mu m) light sources, detectors, and modulators. These will operate in the Reststrahlen region where conventional semiconductor light sources become ineffective. Drawing on the results from the past few years, we will sketch some promising paths to create such devices and we will evaluate their practical advantages and disadvantages when compared to other approaches to infrared optoelectronics.
Physical Sciences Physics Physics, Applied Science & Technology

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