Forward and backward helicity scattering coefficients for systems with discrete rotational symmetry

TL;DR

This paper explores how discrete rotational symmetries influence helicity scattering in linear systems, revealing symmetry-based restrictions on forward and backward scattering, with implications for metamaterials and solar cell design.

Contribution

It establishes symmetry-based constraints on helicity scattering for systems with R_z (2π/n) symmetry, especially when combined with duality symmetry, explaining zero backscattering phenomena.

Findings

Forward scattering is helicity preserving along the symmetry axis.

Backward scattering is helicity flipping along the symmetry axis.

Systems with R_z (2π/4) symmetry and duality exhibit zero backscattering.

Abstract

The forward and backward scattering off linear systems with discrete rotational symmetries R_z (2{\pi} /n) with n $\ge$ 3 are shown to be restricted by symmetry reasons. Along the symmetry axis, forward scattering can only be helicity preserving and backward scattering can only be helicity flipping. These restrictions do not exist for n < 3. If, in addition to the n $\ge$ 3 discrete rotational symmetry, the system has duality symmetry (obeys the helicity conservation law), it will exhibit zero backscattering. The results pinpoint the underlying symmetry reasons for some notable scattering properties of R_z (2{\pi} /4) symmetric systems that have been reported in the metamaterials and radar literature. Applications to planar metamaterials and solar cells are briefly discussed.