Phase-change chalcogenide glass metamaterial

Combining metamaterials with functional media brings a new dimension to their performance. Here we demonstrate substantial resonance frequency tuning in a photonic metamaterial hybridized with an electrically/optically switchable chalcogenide glass. The transition between amorphous and crystalline forms brings about a 10% shift in the near-infrared resonance wavelength of an asymmetric split-ring array, providing transmission modulation functionality with a contrast ratio of 4:1 in a device of sub-wavelength thickness.Comment: 3 pages, 3 figure

Phase-change materials for non-volatile photonic applications

Phase change materials (PCM) provide a unique property combination. Upon the transformation from the amorphous to the crystalline state, their optical properties change drastically. Short optical or electrical pulses can be utilized to switch between these states, making phase change materials attractive for photonic applications. We review recent developments of PCMs and evaluate the potential for all-photonic memories. Towards this goal, the progress as well as existing challenges to realize waveguides with stepwise adjustable transmission is presented. Colour-rendering and nano-pixel displays form another interesting application. Finally, nanophotonic applications based on plasmonic nanostructures are introduced. They provide reconfigurable, non-volatile functionality enabling manipulation and control of light. Requirements and perspectives to successfully implement PCMs in emerging areas of photonics are discussed