The work on fast topology optimization is out

Many processes depend superlinearly on light intensity (that is: two photons are more than twice as better as one). This work shows how to efficiently design lossless ultrathin dielectric optical metasurfaces to achieve extremely large light intensities. The concept can benefit nonlinear optical processes such as photothermal catalysis, light-driven desalination or higher-harmonics generation.

Interestingly, we also show that sometimes it is better to give up some input power (i.e., lose some energy) if that translates into more local field intensities.

Thanks to Yage Zhao and Ming Zhang and great collaboration with Nordlander’s group

Fast Topology Optimization for Near-Field Focusing All-Dielectric Metasurfaces Using the Discrete Dipole Approximation

Optical rectification increased by ~100 times

We have utilized a plasmonic nano-rectenna to increase by ~100 times the efficiency of optical rectification at 1064nm (~280 THz).

Converting optical signals into DC current can be achieved through rectification but the process is typically inefficient for larger energies. The approach shows promise for high-frequency wireless power transmission and, possibly, future rectifying light-harvesting systems.

The work has been published in Advanced Energy Materials:

“High-Frequency Light Rectification by Nanoscale Plasmonic Conical Antenna in Point-Contact-Insulator-Metal Architecture”

Great collaboration with the Italian Institute of Technology.

Focus Issue – Photonics for Practical and Efficient Energy Solutions

Happy to announce a new Special Issue on the use of photonics for energy applications which will be published by IOP. Dr. Johann Toudert (ICFO) and I will be co-editing the volume.

#energy #photonics #nanotechnology

I encourage you to submit your work before the deadline, October 1st 2021.

Please contact me or Johann if you have any questions. More info at the link below.

https://iopscience.iop.org/journal/2515-7647/page/Focus-on-Photonics-for-Practical-and-Efficient-Energy-Solutions

Rice University Electrical and Computer Engineering

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