Asymmetric Reflection Induced in Reciprocal Hyperbolic Materials

Abstract

Reflection is one of the most fundamental properties of light propagation. The ability to engineer this property can be a powerful tool when constructing a variety of now ubiquitous optical and electronic devices, including one-way mirrors and antennas. Here, we show from both experimental and theoretical evidence that highly asymmetric reflection can be induced in reciprocal hyperbolic materials. This asymmetry stems from the asymmetric cross-polarization conversion between two linearly polarized waves, an intrinsic and more exotic property of hyperbolic media that is bereft of research. In addition to angle-controllable reflection, our findings suggest that optical devices could utilize the polarization of the incident beam, or even the polarization of the output wave, to engineer functionality; additionally, in hyperbolic slabs or films, the asymmetry can be tailored by controlling the thickness of the material. Such phenomena are key for directional-dependent optical and optoelectronic devices.

Controlling asymmetric transmission in layered natural hyperbolic crystals

“…In this case, the reflection asymmetry comes from a cross-polarization conversion between TM and transverse electric (TE) waves. 67 It would be noteworthy to discover the kinds of asymmetric transmission and absorption possible with an asymmetric reflection spectrum.…”

Wide-angle and Fano-shape contrast between emission and absorption in hybrid polariton-involved planar structure

“…Besides, there is a FR related with the negative part of δ spectra, providing further degree for the manipulation of NLP. The azimuthal angle (ϕ) performs the function of an index of polarization orientation, which as a consequence could lead to modification of the peak value of δ [38,62]. To explore the impact of ϕ, δ spectra versus λ and ϕ is simulated and shown in figure 5, where d 1 = d 2 = 0.1 µm and t = 0.25 µm.…”

Optical properties and polaritons of low symmetry 2D materials

“…Such ENZ modes have been widely reported in natural hyperbolic plasmonic materials and twisted bilayer systems. Wu et al further demonstrated experimentally and theoretically that natural hyperbolic films can support highly asymmetric reflection, which can be tuned by the film thickness [294] .…”