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Ultra-compact exciton polariton modulator based on van der Waals semiconductors

Author

Listed:
  • Seong Won Lee

    (Korea University
    Korea University)

  • Jong Seok Lee

    (Korea University
    Korea University)

  • Woo Hun Choi

    (Korea University
    Korea University)

  • Daegwang Choi

    (Korea University
    Korea University)

  • Su-Hyun Gong

    (Korea University
    Korea University)

Abstract

With the rapid emergence of artificial intelligence (AI) technology and the exponential growth in data generation, there is an increasing demand for high-performance and highly integratable optical modulators. In this work, we present an ultra-compact exciton-polariton Mach–Zehnder (MZ) modulator based on WS2 multilayers. The guided exciton-polariton modes arise in an ultrathin WS2 waveguide due to the strong excitonic resonance. By locally exciting excitons using a modulation laser in one arm of the MZ modulator, we induce changes in the effective refractive index of the polariton mode, resulting in modulation of transmitted intensity. Remarkably, we achieve a maximum modulation of −6.20 dB with an ultra-short modulation length of 2 μm. Our MZ modulator boasts an ultra-compact footprint area of ~30 μm² and a thin thickness of 18 nm. Our findings present new opportunities for the advancement of highly integrated and efficient photonic devices utilizing van der Waals materials.

Suggested Citation

  • Seong Won Lee & Jong Seok Lee & Woo Hun Choi & Daegwang Choi & Su-Hyun Gong, 2024. "Ultra-compact exciton polariton modulator based on van der Waals semiconductors," Nature Communications, Nature, vol. 15(1), pages 1-7, December.
    • Handle: RePEc:nat:natcom:v:15:y:2024:i:1:d:10.1038_s41467-024-46701-1
    DOI: 10.1038/s41467-024-46701-1
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