Fast simulation of light scattering and harmonic generation in axially symmetric structures in COMSOL

TL;DR

This paper presents a practical approach and ready-to-use COMSOL models for rapid simulation of light scattering and harmonic generation in axially symmetric nanostructures, reducing computational complexity.

Contribution

It introduces a method leveraging symmetry to speed up linear and nonlinear scattering simulations in COMSOL, with practical models included.

Findings

Significant reduction in computation time for axisymmetric structures

Accurate calculation of scattering cross-sections and multipolar decomposition

Effective simulation of second harmonic generation in nanostructures

Abstract

In the field of optics and nanophotonics, simulation of electromagnetic scattering plays a major role in the study of complex nanostructures and optical devices. The numerical analysis of scattering spectra, even for nanocavities with simple geometry, is associated with significant computational difficulties. However, when the system exhibits certain symmetries, it becomes possible to simplify the problem through the process of separation of variables, which leads to a decrease in its dimension. In this paper, we aim to provide a practical guide to a fast simulation of linear and non-linear scattering problems in COMSOL Multiphysics for axisymmetric objects including computation of scattering cross-section as well as its multipolar decomposition, optical forces, and second harmonic generation. We also accompany the provided guide with the ready-to-run COMSOL models.