All-dielectric one-dimensional periodic structures for total omnidirectional reflection and partial spontaneous emission control

TL;DR

This paper explores all-dielectric one-dimensional periodic structures that achieve total omnidirectional reflection across a frequency range, offering low-loss alternatives to metallic mirrors for optical applications.

Contribution

It introduces the design principles and experimental validation of all-dielectric omnidirectional mirrors with potential for lossless optical reflection.

Findings

Demonstrated total omnidirectional reflection at optical frequencies

Achieved low-loss reflection unlike metallic counterparts

Provided design criteria for all-dielectric mirrors

Abstract

A remarkable property of one-dimensional all-dielectric periodic structures has recently been reported, namely a one-dimensional lattice can totally reflect electromagnetic wave of any polarization at all angles within a prescribed frequency region. Unlike their metallic counterpart, such all-dielectric omnidirectional mirrors are nearly free of loss at optical frequencies. Here we discuss the physics, design criteria and applications of the thin-film all-dielectric omnidirectional mirror. The experimental demonstration of the mirror is presented at optical frequencies.