Particlelike wave packets in complex scattering systems

TL;DR

This paper demonstrates the existence of particle-like wave packets in complex scattering systems that maintain focus in space and time, offering potential for improved wave control in various applications.

Contribution

It provides experimental evidence of particle-like wave packets in elastic wave systems, highlighting their limited dispersion and potential for wave focusing and information transfer.

Findings

Particle-like wave packets remain focused during propagation.

Limited dispersion of these wave packets enhances control.

Experimental access to the time-delay matrix is achieved.

Abstract

A wave packet undergoes a strong spatial and temporal dispersion while propagating through a complex medium. This wave scattering is often seen as a nightmare in wave physics whether it be for focusing, imaging or communication purposes. Controlling wave propagation through complex systems is thus of fundamental interest in many areas, ranging from optics or acoustics to medical imaging or telecommunications. Here, we study the propagation of elastic waves in a cavity and a disordered waveguide by means of laser interferometry. From the direct experimental access to the time-delay matrix of these systems, we demonstrate the existence of particle-like wave packets that remain focused in time and space throughout their complex trajectory. Due to their limited dispersion, their selective excitation will be crucially relevant for all applications involving selective wave focusing and efficient information transfer through complex media.