Gain-loss-engineering: a new platform for extreme anisotropic thermal photon tunneling

TL;DR

This paper introduces a new platform for controlling thermal photon tunneling using gain-loss modulation inspired by quantum parity-time symmetry, revealing novel effects and defect states in thermal energy transport.

Contribution

It presents a novel gain-loss engineering approach to manipulate anisotropic thermal photon tunneling, surpassing traditional methods and broadening applications in thermal management and energy devices.

Findings

Identification of complex tunneling modes including defect states and Fermi-arc-like phenomena

Gain is less effective than loss in enhancing thermal photon energy transport

The study broadens understanding of thermal photon behavior with gain-loss modulation

Abstract

We explore a novel approach to achieving anisotropic thermal photon tunneling, inspired by the concept of parity-time symmetry in quantum physics. Our method leverages the modulation of constitutive optical parameters, oscillating between loss and gain regimes. This modulation reveals a variety of distinct effects in thermal photon behavior and dispersion. Specifically, we identify complex tunneling modes through gain-loss engineering, which include thermal photonic defect states and Fermi-arc-like phenomena, which surpass those achievable through traditional polariton engineering. Our research also elucidates the laws governing the evolution of radiative energy in the presence of gain and loss interactions, and highlights the unexpected inefficacy of gain in enhancing thermal photon energy transport compared to systems characterized solely by loss. This study not only broadens our understanding of thermal photon tunneling but also establishes a versatile platform for manipulating photon energy transport, with potential applications in thermal management, heat science, and the development of advanced energy devices.