Topological Metamaterials based on polariton rings

TL;DR

This paper demonstrates the emergence of topological phases and protected edge states in polariton ring arrays, driven by magnetic fields and spin-orbit coupling, revealing new avenues for topological photonics.

Contribution

It introduces a novel topological phase in polariton ring arrays caused by magnetic fields and spin-orbit interactions, with experimental implications for photonic topological insulators.

Findings

Chern insulator phase observed in polariton rings

Topologically protected chiral edge states identified

Edge states similar to SSH model in 1D arrays

Abstract

Chern insulator phase is shown to emerge in two-dimensional arrays of polariton rings where time-reversal symmetry is broken due to the application of an out-of-plane magnetic field. The interplay of Zeeman splitting with the photonic analog of spin-orbit coupling (TE-TM splitting) inherently present in this system leads to the appearance of synthetic U(1) gauge field and the opening of topologically nontrivial spectral gaps. This results in the onset of topologically protected chiral edge states similar to those forming in quantum Hall effect. In one dimensional zigzag arrays of polariton rings edge states similar to those appearing in Su-SchriefferHeeger (SSH) model are formed.