Two-Dimensional Electron Gas as a Basis for Low-Loss Hyperbolic Metamaterials

TL;DR

This paper proposes using a III-nitride superlattice with a two-dimensional electron gas to create low-loss hyperbolic metamaterials, potentially improving optical devices like waveguides and solar cells.

Contribution

It introduces a novel approach of employing a 2DEG in III-nitride superlattices to reduce losses in hyperbolic metamaterials.

Findings

2DEG can serve as a low-loss metallic layer

Potential for improved optical device performance

Reduction of inherent metallic losses in hyperbolic metamaterials

Abstract

The implementation of hyperbolic metamaterials as component in optical waveguides, semiconductor light emitters and solar cells has been limited by the inherent loss in the metallic layers. The features of a hyperbolic metamaterial arise by the presence of alternating metal and a dielectric layers. This work proposes that the deleterious loss characteristic of metal-based hyperbolic metamaterials can be minimized by employing a III-nitride superlattice wherein a two-dimensional electron gas (2DEG) functions as the metallic layer.