A Polarization-Dependent Normal Incident Quantum Cascade Detector Enhanced Via Metamaterial Resonators

Nanoscale Res Lett. 2016 Dec;11(1):536. doi: 10.1186/s11671-016-1749-2. Epub 2016 Dec 1.

Abstract

The design, fabrication, and characterization of a polarization-dependent normal incident quantum cascade detector coupled via complementary split-ring metamaterial resonators in the infrared regime are presented. The metamaterial structure is designed through three-dimensional finite-difference time-domain method and fabricated on the top metal contact, which forms a double-metal waveguide together with the metallic ground plane. With normal incidence, significant enhancements of photocurrent response are obtained at the metamaterial resonances compared with the 45° polished edge coupling device. The photocurrent response enhancements exhibit clearly polarization dependence, and the largest response enhancement factor of 165% is gained for the incident light polarized parallel to the split-ring gap.

Keywords: Infrared; Metamaterials; Photodetectors; Polarization-selective devices.