Enhancing metasurface performance potential

By rotating the 𝐶3 symmetry breaking deformation ( 𝜑), the angular positions of the Dirac points and the corresponding polarization singularities for both bands can be controlled.
By rotating the 𝐶3 symmetry breaking deformation ( 𝜑), the angular positions of the Dirac points and the corresponding polarization singularities for both bands can be controlled.

New uses for metasurfaces in both regular and quantum optics are creating a need for better control over how light is polarized, especially for modes that are very similar and of high quality. In this study, researchers found a way to balance keeping high quality while also making sure the system is strong and reliable. This was accomplished by using a method that involves creating, destroying, and positioning special points in the light’s polarization. These points come from pairs of states that are protected by symmetry. This new method could improve how metasurfaces work in many different areas, such as sensing, controlling light, mixing different types of light, and creating quantum light.

Sandia experts linked to work

  • Chloe F. Doiron
  • Igal Brener
  • Alexander Cerjan

Sponsored by

Department of Energy Office of Science logo

Publications

Doiron, C. F., Brener†, I., and Cerjan, A. (2024) “Dual-Band Polarization Control with Pairwise Positioning of Polarization Singularities in Metasurfaces,” Phys. Rev. Lett. 133, 213802. https://journals.aps.org/prl/abstract/10.1103/PhysRevLett.133.213802


March 3, 2025