Graphene-based Nano-photonic Structures

The mono-layer of graphene offers unique and new opportunities for the design and development of THz and electro-optic devices. In the proposed research, we are planning to realize a new type of THz photo-mixer in which graphene acts as the non-linear medium. The possibility of integrating graphene with nano-photonic structures as well as the graphene’s unmatched non-linearity are the main motivations to investigate such device concepts and enabling technologies. One of the obstacles in the realization of such devices is the weak interaction of graphene with light. To surpass this problem, we are proposing a nano-plasmonic structure made of nano-particles arranged in a periodic lattice. Once integrated with graphene, this plasmonic structure will act like a gated structure that will affect the electron transport in graphene. In this respect, a new numerical method based on the multipoles of Dirac equation for the active region modeling of graphene is developed. The effect of plasmon resonances in enhancing the electromagnetic field interaction with graphene has been also studied and verified using the Raman spectroscopy measurements.

Photo mixingPhotomixing Antenna Array

 

Main aspects of the project:

  • The frequency range THz
  • An integrable THz source that can be integrated for on chip applications

On Chip Photomixing Antenna array

Graphene-based Integrated Nonlinear Optics

    Graphene is a two-dimensional arrangement of carbon atoms in the honeycomb lattice and is the thinnest, strongest, and one the most flexible materials known to exist. We have recently shown that graphene exhibits special optical properties rooting in the topological features of its band structure. The strong interaction of graphene and light together with ease of fabrication integration make graphene a promising candidate for tunable integrated optics. We are exploring nonlinear performance of graphene-photonic crystal structures such as optical switch and transistors. Our theoretical and numerical results predict superior nonlinear performance graphene based devices.

    Figure 3

     

    Main aspects of the project:

    • Theoretical investigation of the nonlinear quantum optical properties of graphene.
    • Design and optimization of optical platforms to enhance nonlinear operations.
    • Experimental characterization of graphene.
    • Fabrication and measurement.

    Figure 4