BNC Seminar - Alexander K. Popov

October 8 @ 1:30 PM - 2:30 PM - BRK 2001

Title: Merging Nonlinear Nanophotonicsand Negative-Index Metamaterials

Absract: Extraordinary properties of nonlinear optical propagation processes in metamaterialswhich enable coherent energy exchange between ordinary and backward waves of different nature are described. These processes include harmonic generation and three- and four-wave frequency mixing that allow optical parametric amplification and frequency conversion of the light waves. Striking contrast with properties of the counterparts in ordinary materials are shown, which results in sharp increase of energy-conversion efficiency. Particularly, exotic features arise in amplification and generation of contra-propagating short pulses. Novel materials, which enable such processes through support of coexisting electromagnetic or vibration (optical phonons) modes, both with positive and negative phase velocities, are proposed. The outlined processes along with quantum interference in the embedded resonant centers enable control over optical properties of the metamaterials. The concepts of unique ultracompactphotonic devices such as data processing chips, tunable nonlinear-optical mirrors, filters, switches and sensors, are discussed.

Bio: Alexander K. Popov is a research professor of physics at the University of Wisconsin-Stevens Point. His research area includes resonant laser-matter interactions, laser-driven processes in metal nanocomposites and in negative-index metamaterials. His work has led to more than 400 articles/book chapters and 4 books. He is a senior member of the Optical Society of America. He received a Doctoral Degree (Physics and Mathematics) from Krasnoyarsk Institute of Physics of Russian Academy of Sciences. He worked in Novosibirsk Research Center of the Russian Academy of Sciences and then founded and headed the Research Department of Coherent and Nonlinear Optics at the Institute of Physics of Krasnoyarsk Research Center and chaired the Department of Optics and Spectroscopy at Krasnoyarsk State University. He has been named a Soros Professor by the International Science Education Program.

Jaime Turner

Birck Nanotechnology Center

Purdue University

1205 West State STreet

West Lafayette, IN 47907-2057

(765) 494-3509

jjturner@purdue.edu