Invention:
This technology is an ultrathin Faraday isolator that incorporates two novel features that enhance its electromagnetic isolation capability. The first is the incorporation of highly polarization-sensitive metasurfaces to allow it to achieve the necessary polarization rotation for isolation in relatively weak magnetic fields. The second is the usage of ultrathin magneto-optical material with a thickness of only a few microns, making the device much thinner than traditional Faraday isolators. This design minimizes polarization rotation and operates with weak magnetic fields, making it ideal for various applications, including optical communications, quantum computing, and microwave circuits. The isolator’s ability to achieve near-complete optical isolation without requiring intense electromagnetic fields provides an advantageous solution for photonic metamaterials.
Background:
Faraday isolators are optical devices that transmit light in one direction and block light in the opposite directions. They have a wide range of applications in the optical technology field and are vital for optical and microwave circuits to isolate light by rotating its polarization. However, current Faraday isolators are restrained by their need for substantial magnetic fields and thick magneto-optical materials in order to function, limiting their practicality. This technology utilizes polarization-sensitive metasurfaces coupled with ultrathin magneto-optical material to decrease the rotation needed to achieve isolation and reduce device thickness. Therefore, it is suitable for usage in applications without the need for a strong electromagnetic field, and for applications with size constraints.
Applications:
- Electromagnetic isolation
- Optical communications
- Quantum computing
- Microwave circuits
Advantages:
- Compact, ultra-thin design
- Functional in relatively weak electromagnetic fields
- Improved performance
