Straightening of light in a one dimensional dilute photonic crystal

TL;DR

This paper predicts that under certain conditions, light in a one-dimensional dilute photonic crystal becomes straightened due to localized states, enhancing potential solar cell applications.

Contribution

It derives an analytical expression for transmission and predicts light straightening caused by localized states in a 1D photonic crystal.

Findings

Light becomes straightened under specific conditions.

Localized states near band edges or in gaps cause suppression of transverse mobility.

System shows small reflection and potential for solar cell use.

Abstract

Light transport in a dilute photonic crystal is considered. The analytical expression for the transmission coefficient is derived.Straightening of light under certain conditions in a one-dimensional photonic crystal is predicted. Such behavior is caused by the formation of a localized state in transversal motion. The main contribution to the central diffracted wave transmission coefficient is due to states, that either close to the conductance bands bottom or deeply localized in the forbidden gap. Both these states suppress mobility in the transverse direction and force light to be straightened. Straightening of light in the optical region along with small reflection make these systems very promising for use in solar cells.