Learn about the five most common types of photonic crystals and their applications in telecommunications, sensors, solar cells, and more.
Photonics crystals, also known as photonic bandgap materials, are artificial structures that have periodic variation in their refractive index. These structures can manipulate the behavior of light in different ways and are commonly used in a variety of applications, including telecommunications, sensors, and solar cells. In this article, we will discuss the five most common types of photonic crystals.
1. One-dimensional Photonic Crystals
One-dimensional photonic crystals are structures that have periodic variation in refractive index in only one direction. They are also known as Fabry-Perot filters and are commonly used as optical coatings. These crystals reflect specific wavelengths of light while transmitting others, creating a distinctive color or reflection. One-dimensional photonic crystals are easy to fabricate and have a variety of uses in optical devices.
2. Two-dimensional Photonic Crystals
Two-dimensional photonic crystals have periodic variation in refractive index in two directions, creating a planar lattice structure. They can manipulate light in various ways, such as guiding, filtering, and reflecting it. These crystals are commonly used in microcavities, waveguides, and sensors. Two-dimensional photonic crystals can be fabricated using lithography and other techniques.
3. Three-dimensional Photonic Crystals
Three-dimensional photonic crystals have periodic variation in refractive index in three directions. These crystals can manipulate light in more complex ways than one- and two-dimensional crystals. They have a variety of applications, including optical computing, solar cells, and chemical sensors. Fabricating three-dimensional photonic crystals is challenging, but techniques such as self-assembly and holography have been developed to make it easier.
4. Semiconductor-based Photonic Crystals
Semiconductor-based photonic crystals are made of semiconductor materials and have periodic variation in refractive index. They are commonly used in telecommunications and
