Light extraction from high-k modes in a hyperbolic metamaterial

TL;DR

This paper demonstrates a novel method to extract light from high-k modes in hyperbolic metamaterials using a high-index contrast grating, enabling practical photonic device applications.

Contribution

It introduces the first successful out-coupling of high-k modes in an active HMM via a high-index contrast bulls-eye grating with embedded quantum dots.

Findings

Successful out-coupling of high-k modes demonstrated

Quantum dots used for local excitation of modes

Potential for practical photonic device development

Abstract

Hyperbolic Metamaterials (HMMs) have recently garnered much attention because they possess the ability for broadband manipulation of the photon density of states and sub-wavelength light confinement. These exceptional properties arise due to the excitation of electromagnetic states with high momentum (high-k modes). However, a major hindrance to practical applications of HMMs is the difficulty in coupling light out of these modes because they become evanescent at the surface of the metamaterial. Here we report the first demonstration of out-coupling of high-k modes in an active HMM using a high-index contrast bulls-eye grating. Quantum dots embedded inside the metamaterial are used for local excitation of high-k modes. This demonstration of light out-coupling from quantum dots embedded in a HMM could pave the way for developing practical photonic devices using these systems.