Generalized scattering-matrix approach for magneto-optics in periodically patterned multilayer systems

TL;DR

This paper introduces a comprehensive scattering-matrix method for analyzing magneto-optical effects in complex, periodically patterned multilayer nanostructures, accommodating various materials and configurations.

Contribution

The authors develop a generalized formalism that extends existing scattering-matrix approaches to include all key magneto-optical effects in multilayer systems with arbitrary anisotropy.

Findings

Resonant enhancement of the transverse magneto-optical Kerr effect observed.

Method successfully describes surface plasmon polariton effects.

Agreement with experimental measurements demonstrated.

Abstract

We present here a generalization of the scattering-matrix approach for the description of the propagation of electromagnetic waves in nanostructured magneto-optical systems. Our formalism allows us to describe all the key magneto-optical effects in any configuration in periodically patterned multilayer structures. The method can also be applied to describe periodic multilayer systems comprising materials with any type of optical anisotropy. We illustrate the method with the analysis of a recent experiment in which the transverse magneto-optical Kerr effect was measured in a Fe film with a periodic array of subwavelength circular holes. We show, in agreement with the experiments, that the excitation of surface plasmon polaritons in this system leads to a resonant enhancement of the transverse magneto-optical Kerr effect.