Quantum coherence-assisted propagation of surface plasmon polaritons

Pankaj K. Jha, Xiaobo Yin, Xiang Zhang

Research output: Contribution to journalArticlepeer-review

35 Scopus citations

Abstract

We theoretically demonstrate coherent control over propagation of surface plasmon polaritons (SPP), at both telecommunication and visible wavelengths, on a metallic surface adjacent to quantum coherence (phaseonium) medium composed of three-level quantum emitters (semiconductor quantum dots, atoms, rare-earth ions, etc.) embedded in a dielectric host. The coherent drive allows us to provide sufficient gain for lossless SPP propagation and also lowers the pumping requirements. In case of lossy propagation, an order of magnitude enhancement in propagation length can be achieved. Optical control over SPP propagation dynamics via an external coherent drive holds promise for quantum control in the field of nanophotonics.

Original languageEnglish (US)
Article number091111
JournalApplied Physics Letters
Volume102
Issue number9
DOIs
StatePublished - Mar 4 2013
Externally publishedYes

ASJC Scopus subject areas

  • Physics and Astronomy (miscellaneous)

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