Multiplexing complex two-dimensional photonic superlattices

TL;DR

This paper presents a universal optical method to create complex two-dimensional photonic superlattices with multiple periodicities, enabling precise control of refractive index modulations for advanced photonic applications.

Contribution

A novel approach combining Fourier series and nondiffracting beams to generate complex 2D photonic superstructures over extended lengths.

Findings

Successful generation of 2D photonic staircase, hexagonal wire mesh, and ratchet structures.

Use of digital-holographic techniques confirmed the induced refractive index patterns.

Method enables precise control of multiperiodic 2D photonic structures.

Abstract

We introduce a universal method to optically induce multiperiodic photonic complex superstructures bearing two-dimensional (2D) refractive index modulations over several centimeters of elongation. These superstructures result from the accomplished superposition of 2D fundamental periodic structures. To find the specific sets of fundamentals, we combine particular spatial frequencies of the respective Fourier series expansions, which enables us to use nondiffracting beams in the experiment showing periodic 2D intensity modulation in order to successively develop the desired multiperiodic structures. We present the generation of 2D photonic staircase, hexagonal wire mesh and ratchet structures, whose succeeded generation is confirmed by phase resolving methods using digital-holographic techniques to detect the induced refractive index pattern.