Polarization control and sensing with two-dimensional coupled photonic crystal microcavity arrays

Abstract

We have experimentally studied polarization properties of the two-dimensional coupled photonic crystal microcavity arrays, and observed a strong polarization dependence of the transmission and reflection of light from the structures - the effects that can be employed in building miniaturized polarizing optical components. Moreover, by combining these properties with a strong sensitivity of the coupled bands on the surrounding refractive index, we have demonstrated a detection of small refractive index changes in the environment, which is useful for construction of bio-chemical sensors.

8 pages text and 4 figures on 4 pages. Submitted for publication on 07/14/04