Photonic crystals as metamaterials

TL;DR

This paper reviews how photonic crystals, a type of dielectric periodic structure, can exhibit electromagnetic properties similar to metallic metamaterials, expanding the scope of engineered EM responses beyond natural materials.

Contribution

It provides a comprehensive review of the conditions under which photonic crystals can demonstrate metamaterial-like electromagnetic properties.

Findings

Photonic crystals can exhibit negative refractive index.

Photonic crystals can demonstrate optical magnetism.

Metamaterial capabilities of photonic crystals are achievable under specific conditions.

Abstract

The visionary work of Veselago had inspired intensive research efforts over the last decade, towards the realization of man-made structures with unprecedented electromagnetic (EM) properties. These structures, known as metamaterials, are typically periodic metallic-based resonant structures demonstrating effective constitutive parameters beyond the possibilities of natural material. For example they can exhibit optical magnetism or simultaneously negative effective permeability and permittivity which implies the existence of a negative refractive index. However, also periodic dielectric and polar material, known as photonic crystals, can exhibit EM capabilities beyond natural materials. This paper reviews the conditions and manifestations of metamaterial capabilities of photonic crystal systems.