Optimization of highly circularly polarized thermal radiation in $\alpha$-MoO${}_3$/$\beta$-Ga${}_2$O${}_3$ twisted layers

Abstract

We investigate a bi-layer scheme for circularly polarized infrared thermal radiation. Our approach takes advantage of the strong anisotropy of low-symmetry materials such as $\beta$-Ga${}_2$O${}_3$ and $\alpha$-MoO${}_3$. We numerically report narrow-band, high degree of circular polarization (over 0.85), thermal radiation at two typical emission frequencies related to the excitation of $\beta$-Ga${}_2$O${}_3$ optical phonons. Optimization of the degree of circular polarization is achieved by a proper relative tilt of the crystal axes between the two layers. Our simple but effective scheme could set the basis for a new class of lithography-free thermal sources for IR bio-sensing.

11 pages, 6 figures

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