High topological charge lasing in quasicrystals

TL;DR

This paper demonstrates high topological charge lasing in quasicrystals, revealing complex vortex-like photonic modes with charges up to ±19, expanding understanding of topological defects and enabling novel laser applications.

Contribution

It introduces the first experimental realization of high topological charge lasing in quasicrystals, utilizing group theory for design and achieving charges beyond lattice symmetry limitations.

Findings

Lasing with topological charges up to ±19 achieved.

Rich structures of topological charges observed in reciprocal space.

Design method maximizes gain using group theory and nanoparticle placement.

Abstract

Photonic modes exhibiting a polarization winding akin to a vortex possess an integer topological charge. Lasing with topological charge 1 or 2 can be realized in periodic lattices of up to six-fold rotational symmetry. Higher order charges require symmetries not compatible with any two-dimensional Bravais lattice. Here, we experimentally demonstrate lasing with topological charges as high as -5, +7, -17 and +19 in quasicrystals. We discover rich ordered structures of increasing topological charges in the reciprocal space. Our quasicrystal design utilizes group theory in determining electromagnetic field nodes, where lossy plasmonic nanoparticles are positioned to maximize gain. Our results open a new path for fundamental studies of higher-order topological defects, coherent light beams of high topological charge, and realizations of omni-directional, flat-band-like lasing.