Journals >Review of Optics: a virtual journal
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2019
Volume: S Issue 1
28 Article(s)
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Semiconductor UV Photonics
Review of encapsulation materials for AlGaN-based deep-ultraviolet light-emitting diodes
Yosuke Nagasawa, and Akira Hirano
This paper reviews and introduces the techniques for boosting the light-extraction efficiency (LEE) of AlGaN-based deep-ultraviolet (
Review of Optics: a virtual journal
- Publication Date: Aug. 01, 2019
- Vol. 7 Issue 8 08000B55 (2019)
Underwater Wireless Optical Communication
Hybrid LD and LED-based underwater optical communication: state-of-the-art, opportunities, challenges, and trends [Invited]
Xuan Huang, Fang Yang, and Jian Song
In this paper, the current research of an underwater optical wireless communication (UWOC) network is reviewed first. A hybrid laser diode (LD) and light-emitting diode (LED)-based UWOC system is then proposed and investigated, in which hybrid cluster-based networking with mobility restricted nodes is utilized to improve both the life cycle and throughput of the UWOC network. Moreover, the LEDs are utilized for the coarse alignment, while the LDs are used for high-precision positioning to reduce the difficulty of optical alignment. Finally, challenges and trends for UWOC are pointed out to provide some insight for potential future work of researchers.In this paper, the current research of an underwater optical wireless communication (UWOC) network is reviewed first. A hybrid laser diode (LD) and light-emitting diode (LED)-based UWOC system is then proposed and investigated, in which hybrid cluster-based networking with mobility restricted nodes is utilized to improve both the life cycle and throughput of the UWOC network. Moreover, the LEDs are utilized for the coarse alignment, while the LDs are used for high-precision positioning to reduce the difficulty of optical alignment. Finally, challenges and trends for UWOC are pointed out to provide some insight for potential future work of researchers..
Review of Optics: a virtual journal
- Publication Date: Oct. 10, 2019
- Vol. 17 Issue 10 100002 (2019)
Underwater wireless optical communication: why, what, and how? [Invited]
Jing Xu
Foreseeing the proliferation of underwater vehicles and sensors, underwater wireless optical communication (UWOC) is a key enabler for ocean exploration, with strong competitiveness in short-range bandwidth-intensive applications. We provide a tutorial on the basic concepts and essential features of UWOC, as well as an overview of work being conducted in this field. Research challenges, arising from the characteristics of underwater channels, and possible roadmaps are discussed in detail. This review is expected to be of great use for the link designers of this field.Foreseeing the proliferation of underwater vehicles and sensors, underwater wireless optical communication (UWOC) is a key enabler for ocean exploration, with strong competitiveness in short-range bandwidth-intensive applications. We provide a tutorial on the basic concepts and essential features of UWOC, as well as an overview of work being conducted in this field. Research challenges, arising from the characteristics of underwater channels, and possible roadmaps are discussed in detail. This review is expected to be of great use for the link designers of this field..
Review of Optics: a virtual journal
- Publication Date: Oct. 10, 2019
- Vol. 17 Issue 10 100007 (2019)
Recent achievements on underwater optical wireless communication [Invited]
Giulio Cossu
The growing number of underwater activities is giving momentum to the development of new technologies, such as buoys, remotely operated vehicles, and autonomous underwater vehicles. The data collected by these vehicles need to be transmitted to a high-speed central unit. Clearly, wired solutions are not suitable, since they strongly impact the mobility. In this scenario, a promising solution is offered by underwater optical wireless communication (UOWC) technology, which can achieve both high-speed and wireless operation. Here, we provide a comprehensive survey on the challenges, the experimental realizations, and the state of the art in UOWC researches.The growing number of underwater activities is giving momentum to the development of new technologies, such as buoys, remotely operated vehicles, and autonomous underwater vehicles. The data collected by these vehicles need to be transmitted to a high-speed central unit. Clearly, wired solutions are not suitable, since they strongly impact the mobility. In this scenario, a promising solution is offered by underwater optical wireless communication (UOWC) technology, which can achieve both high-speed and wireless operation. Here, we provide a comprehensive survey on the challenges, the experimental realizations, and the state of the art in UOWC researches..
Review of Optics: a virtual journal
- Publication Date: Oct. 10, 2019
- Vol. 17 Issue 10 100009 (2019)
Fiber Optics and Optical Communications
Photonic microwave filters with ultra-high noise rejection [Invited]
Xihua Zou, Peixuan Li, Wei Pan, and Lianshan Yan
As a key figure-of-merit for high-performance microwave filters, the out-of-band noise rejection is of critical importance in a wide range of applications. This paper overviews the significant advances in photonic microwave filters (PMFs) having ultra-high rejection ratios for out-of-band noise suppression over the last ten years. Typically, two types of PMFs, the bandpass and bandstop ones, are introduced with fundamental principles, detailed approaches, and then cutting-edge results for noise rejection. Ultra-high noise rejection ratios of ～80 dB and >60 dB have been demonstrated for single-passband and single-stopband PMFs, respectively, which are comparable with the state-of-the-art electronic filters operating in stringent conditions. These PMFs are also characterized by wide frequency coverage, low frequency-dependent loss, and strong immunity to electromagnetic interference due to the intrinsic features from the advanced photonics technology.As a key figure-of-merit for high-performance microwave filters, the out-of-band noise rejection is of critical importance in a wide range of applications. This paper overviews the significant advances in photonic microwave filters (PMFs) having ultra-high rejection ratios for out-of-band noise suppression over the last ten years. Typically, two types of PMFs, the bandpass and bandstop ones, are introduced with fundamental principles, detailed approaches, and then cutting-edge results for noise rejection. Ultra-high noise rejection ratios of ～80 dB and >60 dB have been demonstrated for single-passband and single-stopband PMFs, respectively, which are comparable with the state-of-the-art electronic filters operating in stringent conditions. These PMFs are also characterized by wide frequency coverage, low frequency-dependent loss, and strong immunity to electromagnetic interference due to the intrinsic features from the advanced photonics technology..
Review of Optics: a virtual journal
- Publication Date: Mar. 10, 2019
- Vol. 17 Issue 3 030601 (2019)
Visible light positioning: moving from 2D planes to 3D spaces [Invited]
E. W. Lam, and T. D. C. Little
The global navigation satellite system (GNSS) is a well-established outdoor positioning system with industry-wide impact due to the multifaceted applications of navigation, tracking, and automation. At large, however, is the indoor equivalent. One hierarchy of solutions, visible light positioning (VLP) with its promise of centimeter-scale accuracy and widespread coverage indoors, has emerged as a viable, easy to configure, and inexpensive candidate. We investigate how the state-of-the-art VLP systems fare against two hard barriers in indoor positioning: the need for high accuracy and the need to position in the three-dimensions (3D). We find that although most schemes claim centimeter-level accuracy for some proposed space or plane, those accuracies do not translate into a realistic 3D space due to diminishing field-of-view in 3D and assumptions made on the operating space. We do find two favorable solutions in ray–surface positioning and gain differentials. Both schemes show good positioning errors, low-cost potential, and single-luminaire positioning functionality.The global navigation satellite system (GNSS) is a well-established outdoor positioning system with industry-wide impact due to the multifaceted applications of navigation, tracking, and automation. At large, however, is the indoor equivalent. One hierarchy of solutions, visible light positioning (VLP) with its promise of centimeter-scale accuracy and widespread coverage indoors, has emerged as a viable, easy to configure, and inexpensive candidate. We investigate how the state-of-the-art VLP systems fare against two hard barriers in indoor positioning: the need for high accuracy and the need to position in the three-dimensions (3D). We find that although most schemes claim centimeter-level accuracy for some proposed space or plane, those accuracies do not translate into a realistic 3D space due to diminishing field-of-view in 3D and assumptions made on the operating space. We do find two favorable solutions in ray–surface positioning and gain differentials. Both schemes show good positioning errors, low-cost potential, and single-luminaire positioning functionality..
Review of Optics: a virtual journal
- Publication Date: Mar. 10, 2019
- Vol. 17 Issue 3 030604 (2019)
A tutorial on laser-based lighting and visible light communications: device and technology [Invited]
Yujian Guo, Omar Alkhazragi, Chun Hong Kang, Chao Shen... and Boon S. Ooi|Show fewer author(s)
This tutorial focuses on devices and technologies that are part of laser-based visible light communication (VLC) systems. Laser-based VLC systems have advantages over their light-emitting-diode-based counterparts, including having high transmission speed and long transmission distance. We summarize terminologies related to laser-based solid-state lighting and VLC, and further review the advances in device design and performance. The high-speed modulation characteristics of laser diodes and superluminescent diodes and the on-chip integration of optoelectronic components in the visible color regime, such as the high-speed integrated photodetector, are introduced. The modulation technology for laser-based white light communication systems and the challenges for future development are then discussed.This tutorial focuses on devices and technologies that are part of laser-based visible light communication (VLC) systems. Laser-based VLC systems have advantages over their light-emitting-diode-based counterparts, including having high transmission speed and long transmission distance. We summarize terminologies related to laser-based solid-state lighting and VLC, and further review the advances in device design and performance. The high-speed modulation characteristics of laser diodes and superluminescent diodes and the on-chip integration of optoelectronic components in the visible color regime, such as the high-speed integrated photodetector, are introduced. The modulation technology for laser-based white light communication systems and the challenges for future development are then discussed..
Review of Optics: a virtual journal
- Publication Date: Apr. 10, 2019
- Vol. 17 Issue 4 040601 (2019)
Optical-fiber-based powerful tools for living cell manipulation [Invited]
Xiaotong Zhang, Shitai Yang, and Libo Yuan
By using a specialty optical fiber, a series of powerful microparticle manipulation tools, including optical tweezers, a micro-optical hand, and an optical gun, are developed and demonstrated. In this paper, a review of our research activities on the optical manipulation of microparticles is presented. In particular, we will describe a kind of specialty optical fiber designed and fabricated for building optical trapping and manipulating tools. The performances of annular core fiber-based optical tweezers, a multicore fiber-based micro-optical hand, and a coaxial dual waveguide fiber-based optical gun are demonstrated as examples of applications and discussed in detail. The fiber can be used in cell manipulation in life science and drug response in medicine.By using a specialty optical fiber, a series of powerful microparticle manipulation tools, including optical tweezers, a micro-optical hand, and an optical gun, are developed and demonstrated. In this paper, a review of our research activities on the optical manipulation of microparticles is presented. In particular, we will describe a kind of specialty optical fiber designed and fabricated for building optical trapping and manipulating tools. The performances of annular core fiber-based optical tweezers, a multicore fiber-based micro-optical hand, and a coaxial dual waveguide fiber-based optical gun are demonstrated as examples of applications and discussed in detail. The fiber can be used in cell manipulation in life science and drug response in medicine..
Review of Optics: a virtual journal
- Publication Date: Sep. 10, 2019
- Vol. 17 Issue 9 090603 (2019)
Image Processing
Progress of three-dimensional light-field display [Invited]
Qungang Ma, Liangcai Cao, Zehao He, and Shengdong Zhang
In this review, the principle and the optical methods for light-field display are introduced. The light-field display is divided into three categories, including the layer-based method, projector-based method, and integral imaging method. The principle, characteristic, history, and advanced research results of each method are also reviewed. The advantages of light-field display are discussed by comparing it with other display technologies including binocular stereoscopic display, volumetric three-dimensional display, and holographic display.In this review, the principle and the optical methods for light-field display are introduced. The light-field display is divided into three categories, including the layer-based method, projector-based method, and integral imaging method. The principle, characteristic, history, and advanced research results of each method are also reviewed. The advantages of light-field display are discussed by comparing it with other display technologies including binocular stereoscopic display, volumetric three-dimensional display, and holographic display..
Review of Optics: a virtual journal
- Publication Date: Nov. 10, 2019
- Vol. 17 Issue 11 111001 (2019)
Imaging Systems, Microscopy, and Displays
Optofluidics in bio-imaging applications
Sihui Chen, Rui Hao, Yi Zhang, and Hui Yang
Bio-imaging generally indicates imaging techniques that acquire biological information from living forms. Recently, the ability to detect, diagnose, and monitor pathological, physiological, and molecular dynamics is in great demand, while scaling down the observing angle, achieving precise alignment, fast actuation, and a miniaturized platform become key elements in next-generation optical imaging systems. Optofluidics, nominally merging optic and microfluidic technologies, is a relatively new research field, and it has drawn great attention since the last decade. Given its abilities to manipulate both optic and fluidic functions/elements in the micro-/nanometer regime, optofluidics shows great potential in bio-imaging to elevate our cognition in the subcellular and/or molecular level. In this paper, we emphasize the development of optofluidics in bio-imaging, from individual components to representative applications in a more modularized, systematic sense. Further, we expound our expectations for the near future of the optofluidic imaging discipline.Bio-imaging generally indicates imaging techniques that acquire biological information from living forms. Recently, the ability to detect, diagnose, and monitor pathological, physiological, and molecular dynamics is in great demand, while scaling down the observing angle, achieving precise alignment, fast actuation, and a miniaturized platform become key elements in next-generation optical imaging systems. Optofluidics, nominally merging optic and microfluidic technologies, is a relatively new research field, and it has drawn great attention since the last decade. Given its abilities to manipulate both optic and fluidic functions/elements in the micro-/nanometer regime, optofluidics shows great potential in bio-imaging to elevate our cognition in the subcellular and/or molecular level. In this paper, we emphasize the development of optofluidics in bio-imaging, from individual components to representative applications in a more modularized, systematic sense. Further, we expound our expectations for the near future of the optofluidic imaging discipline..
Review of Optics: a virtual journal
- Publication Date: Apr. 17, 2019
- Vol. 7 Issue 5 05000532 (2019)
Lasers and Laser Optics
Whispering-gallery mode hexagonal micro-/nanocavity lasers [Invited]
Yue-De Yang, Min Tang, Fu-Li Wang, Zhi-Xiong Xiao... and Yong-Zhen Huang|Show fewer author(s)
Whispering-gallery-mode (WGM) hexagonal optical micro-/nanocavities can be utilized as high-quality (Q Q Q Q
Review of Optics: a virtual journal
- Publication Date: Apr. 30, 2019
- Vol. 7 Issue 5 05000594 (2019)
Optical and Photonic Materials
2D-material-integrated whispering-gallery-mode microcavity
Lu Wang, Xuefei Zhou, Shuo Yang, Gaoshan Huang, and Yongfeng Mei
Optical microcavities, which support whispering gallery modes, have attracted tremendous attention in both fundamental research and potential applications. The emerging of two-dimensional materials offers a feasible solution to improve the performance of traditional microcavity-based optical devices. Besides, the integration of two-dimensional materials with microcavities will benefit the research of heterogeneous materials on novel devices in photonics and optoelectronics, which is dominated by the strongly enhanced light–matter interaction. This review focuses on the research of heterogeneous two-dimensional-material whispering-gallery-mode microcavities, opening a myriad of lab-on-chip applications, such as optomechanics, quantum photonics, comb generation, and low-threshold microlasing.Optical microcavities, which support whispering gallery modes, have attracted tremendous attention in both fundamental research and potential applications. The emerging of two-dimensional materials offers a feasible solution to improve the performance of traditional microcavity-based optical devices. Besides, the integration of two-dimensional materials with microcavities will benefit the research of heterogeneous materials on novel devices in photonics and optoelectronics, which is dominated by the strongly enhanced light–matter interaction. This review focuses on the research of heterogeneous two-dimensional-material whispering-gallery-mode microcavities, opening a myriad of lab-on-chip applications, such as optomechanics, quantum photonics, comb generation, and low-threshold microlasing..
Review of Optics: a virtual journal
- Publication Date: Jul. 26, 2019
- Vol. 7 Issue 8 08000905 (2019)
Optical Devices
Compact solid-state waveguide lasers operating in the pulsed regime: a review [Invited]
Yuechen Jia, and Feng Chen
Over the last years, there has been tremendous progress with compact pulsed lasers based on various solid-state gain media, such as crystals and glasses doped with laser-active ions. With the integration of increasingly diverse saturable absorber materials, these small sources are capable of delivering stable pulses with durations as short as femtoseconds and repetition rates exceeding 10 GHz. These promising sources are known as solid-state waveguide lasers, which have become synonymous with miniaturization, integration, and functionality. This article overviews the progress in the development of passively Q Q
Review of Optics: a virtual journal
- Publication Date: Jan. 10, 2019
- Vol. 17 Issue 1 012302 (2019)
Optically controlled phase array antenna [Invited]
Nuannuan Shi, Wei Li, Ninghua Zhu, and Ming Li
To overcome the beam squint in wide instantaneous frequency, we review a number of system-level optical controlled phase array antennas for beam forming. The optical delay network based on a fiber device in terms of topological structure of an N -bit optical switch, fiber grating, high-dispersion fiber, and vector-sum technology is discussed, respectively. Lastly, an integrated circuit is simply summarized.To overcome the beam squint in wide instantaneous frequency, we review a number of system-level optical controlled phase array antennas for beam forming. The optical delay network based on a fiber device in terms of topological structure of an N -bit optical switch, fiber grating, high-dispersion fiber, and vector-sum technology is discussed, respectively. Lastly, an integrated circuit is simply summarized..
Review of Optics: a virtual journal
- Publication Date: May. 10, 2019
- Vol. 17 Issue 5 052301 (2019)
Optics at Surfaces
Parametric resonances in nonlinear plasmonics [Invited]
Shima Fardad, Eric Schweisberger, and Alessandro Salandrino
In the context of nonlinear plasmonics, we review the recently introduced concept of plasmonic parametric resonance (PPR) and discuss potential applications of such phenomena. PPR arises from the temporal modulation of one or more of the parameters governing the dynamics of a plasmonic system and can lead to the amplification of high-order sub-radiant plasmonic modes. The theory of PPR is reviewed, possible schemes of implementation are proposed, and applications in optical limiting are discussed.In the context of nonlinear plasmonics, we review the recently introduced concept of plasmonic parametric resonance (PPR) and discuss potential applications of such phenomena. PPR arises from the temporal modulation of one or more of the parameters governing the dynamics of a plasmonic system and can lead to the amplification of high-order sub-radiant plasmonic modes. The theory of PPR is reviewed, possible schemes of implementation are proposed, and applications in optical limiting are discussed..
Review of Optics: a virtual journal
- Publication Date: Dec. 05, 2019
- Vol. 17 Issue 12 122402 (2019)
Optoelectronics
Nonlinear polaritons in metamaterials with plasmon-induced transparency [Invited]
Zhengyang Bai, Qi Zhang, and Guoxiang Huang
Electromagnetically induced transparency (EIT), a typical quantum interference effect, has been extensively investigated in coherent atomic gases. In recent years, it has been recognized that the plasmonic analog of atomic EIT, called plasmon-induced transparency (PIT), is a fruitful platform for the study of EIT-like propagation and interaction of plasmonic polaritons. Many proposals have been presented for realizing PIT in various metamaterials, which possess many unique characters, including the suppression of absorption of electromagnetic radiation, the reduction of propagation velocity, etc. Especially, nonlinear PIT metamaterials, obtained usually by embedding nonlinear elements into meta-atoms, can be used to acquire an enhanced Kerr effect resulted from the resonant coupling between radiation and the meta-atoms and to actively manipulate structural and dynamical properties of plasmonic metamaterials. In this article, we review recent research progress in nonlinear PIT metamaterials, and elucidate their interesting properties and promising applications. In particular, we give a detailed description on the propagation and interaction of nonlinear plasmonic polaritons in metamaterials via PIT, which are promising for chip-scale applications in information processing and transmission.Electromagnetically induced transparency (EIT), a typical quantum interference effect, has been extensively investigated in coherent atomic gases. In recent years, it has been recognized that the plasmonic analog of atomic EIT, called plasmon-induced transparency (PIT), is a fruitful platform for the study of EIT-like propagation and interaction of plasmonic polaritons. Many proposals have been presented for realizing PIT in various metamaterials, which possess many unique characters, including the suppression of absorption of electromagnetic radiation, the reduction of propagation velocity, etc. Especially, nonlinear PIT metamaterials, obtained usually by embedding nonlinear elements into meta-atoms, can be used to acquire an enhanced Kerr effect resulted from the resonant coupling between radiation and the meta-atoms and to actively manipulate structural and dynamical properties of plasmonic metamaterials. In this article, we review recent research progress in nonlinear PIT metamaterials, and elucidate their interesting properties and promising applications. In particular, we give a detailed description on the propagation and interaction of nonlinear plasmonic polaritons in metamaterials via PIT, which are promising for chip-scale applications in information processing and transmission..
Review of Optics: a virtual journal
- Publication Date: Jan. 10, 2019
- Vol. 17 Issue 1 012501 (2019)
Vertical-cavity surface-emitting lasers for data communication and sensing
Anjin Liu, Philip Wolf, James A. Lott, and Dieter Bimberg
Vertical-cavity surface-emitting lasers (VCSELs) are the ideal optical sources for data communication and sensing. In data communication, large data rates combined with excellent energy efficiency and temperature stability have been achieved based on advanced device design and modulation formats. VCSELs are also promising sources for photonic integrated circuits due to their small footprint and low power consumption. Also, VCSELs are commonly used for a wide variety of applications in the consumer electronics market. These applications range from laser mice to three-dimensional (3D) sensing and imaging, including various 3D movement detections, such as gesture recognition or face recognition. Novel VCSEL types will include metastructures, exhibiting additional unique properties, of largest importance for next-generation data communication, sensing, and photonic integrated circuits.Vertical-cavity surface-emitting lasers (VCSELs) are the ideal optical sources for data communication and sensing. In data communication, large data rates combined with excellent energy efficiency and temperature stability have been achieved based on advanced device design and modulation formats. VCSELs are also promising sources for photonic integrated circuits due to their small footprint and low power consumption. Also, VCSELs are commonly used for a wide variety of applications in the consumer electronics market. These applications range from laser mice to three-dimensional (3D) sensing and imaging, including various 3D movement detections, such as gesture recognition or face recognition. Novel VCSEL types will include metastructures, exhibiting additional unique properties, of largest importance for next-generation data communication, sensing, and photonic integrated circuits..
Review of Optics: a virtual journal
- Publication Date: Jan. 09, 2019
- Vol. 7 Issue 2 02000121 (2019)
Review of gallium-oxide-based solar-blind ultraviolet photodetectors
Xuanhu Chen, Fangfang Ren, Shulin Gu, and Jiandong Ye
Solar-blind photodetectors are of great interest to a wide range of industrial, civil, environmental, and biological applications. As one of the emerging ultrawide-bandgap semiconductors, gallium oxide (Ga2O3) exhibits unique advantages over other wide-bandgap semiconductors, especially in developing high-performance solar-blind photodetectors. This paper comprehensively reviews the latest progresses of solar-blind photodetectors based on Ga2O3 materials in various forms of bulk single crystal, epitaxial films, nanostructures, and their ternary alloys. The basic working principles of photodetectors and the fundamental properties and synthesis of Ga2O3, as well as device processing developments, have been briefly summarized. A special focus is to address the physical mechanism for commonly observed huge photoconductive gains. Benefitting from the rapid development in material epitaxy and device processes, Ga2O3-based solar-blind detectors represent to date one of the most prospective solutions for UV detection technology towards versatile applications.Solar-blind photodetectors are of great interest to a wide range of industrial, civil, environmental, and biological applications. As one of the emerging ultrawide-bandgap semiconductors, gallium oxide (Ga2O3) exhibits unique advantages over other wide-bandgap semiconductors, especially in developing high-performance solar-blind photodetectors. This paper comprehensively reviews the latest progresses of solar-blind photodetectors based on Ga2O3 materials in various forms of bulk single crystal, epitaxial films, nanostructures, and their ternary alloys. The basic working principles of photodetectors and the fundamental properties and synthesis of Ga2O3, as well as device processing developments, have been briefly summarized. A special focus is to address the physical mechanism for commonly observed huge photoconductive gains. Benefitting from the rapid development in material epitaxy and device processes, Ga2O3-based solar-blind detectors represent to date one of the most prospective solutions for UV detection technology towards versatile applications..
Review of Optics: a virtual journal
- Publication Date: Apr. 11, 2019
- Vol. 7 Issue 4 04000381 (2019)
QUANTUM PHOTONICS
Sensing and tracking enhanced by quantum squeezing
Chuan Xu, Lidan Zhang, Songtao Huang, Taxue Ma... and Min Xiao|Show fewer author(s)
Quantum sensing, along with quantum communications and quantum computing, is commonly considered as the most important application of quantum optics. Among the quantum-sensing experiments, schemes based on squeezed states of light are popular choices due to their natural quadrature components. Since the first experimental demonstration of quantum-squeezing-enhanced phase measurement beyond the shot-noise limit in 1987, quantum-squeezing techniques toward practical sensing and tracking have been extensively investigated. In this paper, we briefly review the recent developments of quantum squeezing and its applications in several advanced systems for measurements of position, rotation, dynamic motion, magnetic fields, and gravitational waves. We also introduce the recent experimental efforts to combine the quantum-squeezing lights into fiber sensing systems.Quantum sensing, along with quantum communications and quantum computing, is commonly considered as the most important application of quantum optics. Among the quantum-sensing experiments, schemes based on squeezed states of light are popular choices due to their natural quadrature components. Since the first experimental demonstration of quantum-squeezing-enhanced phase measurement beyond the shot-noise limit in 1987, quantum-squeezing techniques toward practical sensing and tracking have been extensively investigated. In this paper, we briefly review the recent developments of quantum squeezing and its applications in several advanced systems for measurements of position, rotation, dynamic motion, magnetic fields, and gravitational waves. We also introduce the recent experimental efforts to combine the quantum-squeezing lights into fiber sensing systems..
Review of Optics: a virtual journal
- Publication Date: May. 08, 2019
- Vol. 7 Issue 6 06000A14 (2019)
Research Articles
Review on TNSA diagnostics and recent developments at SPARC_LAB
Fabrizio Bisesto, Mario Galletti, Maria Pia Anania, Massimo Ferrario... and Arie Zigler|Show fewer author(s)
Interaction between high-intensity lasers with solid targets is the key process in a wide range of novel laser-based particle accelerator schemes, as well as electromagnetic radiation sources. Common to all the processes is the generation of femtosecond pulses of relativistic electrons emitted from the targets as forerunners of the later-time principal products of the interaction scheme. In this paper, some diagnostics employed in laser–solid matter interaction experiments related to electrons, protons, ions, electromagnetic pulses (EMPs) and X-rays are reviewed. Then, we present our experimental study regarding fast electrons and EMPs utilizing a femtosecond-resolution detector previously adopted only in accelerator facilities.Interaction between high-intensity lasers with solid targets is the key process in a wide range of novel laser-based particle accelerator schemes, as well as electromagnetic radiation sources. Common to all the processes is the generation of femtosecond pulses of relativistic electrons emitted from the targets as forerunners of the later-time principal products of the interaction scheme. In this paper, some diagnostics employed in laser–solid matter interaction experiments related to electrons, protons, ions, electromagnetic pulses (EMPs) and X-rays are reviewed. Then, we present our experimental study regarding fast electrons and EMPs utilizing a femtosecond-resolution detector previously adopted only in accelerator facilities..
Review of Optics: a virtual journal
- Publication Date: Jan. 01, 1900
- Vol. 7 Issue 3 03000e56 (2019)
Reviews
Transformation optics from macroscopic to nanoscale regimes: a review
Jingjing Zhang, John B. Pendry, and Yu Luo
Transformation optics is a mathematical method that is based on the geometric interpretation of Maxwell’s equations. This technique enables a direct link between a desired electromagnetic (EM) phenomenon and the material response required for its occurrence, providing a powerful and intuitive design tool for the control of EM fields on all length scales. With the unprecedented design flexibility offered by transformation optics (TO), researchers have demonstrated a host of interesting devices, such as invisibility cloaks, field concentrators, and optical illusion devices. Recently, the applications of TO have been extended to the subwavelength scale to study surface plasmon-assisted phenomena, where a general strategy has been suggested to design and study analytically various plasmonic devices and investigate the associated phenomena, such as nonlocal effects, Casimir interactions, and compact dimensions. We review the basic concept of TO and its advances from macroscopic to the nanoscale regimes.Transformation optics is a mathematical method that is based on the geometric interpretation of Maxwell’s equations. This technique enables a direct link between a desired electromagnetic (EM) phenomenon and the material response required for its occurrence, providing a powerful and intuitive design tool for the control of EM fields on all length scales. With the unprecedented design flexibility offered by transformation optics (TO), researchers have demonstrated a host of interesting devices, such as invisibility cloaks, field concentrators, and optical illusion devices. Recently, the applications of TO have been extended to the subwavelength scale to study surface plasmon-assisted phenomena, where a general strategy has been suggested to design and study analytically various plasmonic devices and investigate the associated phenomena, such as nonlocal effects, Casimir interactions, and compact dimensions. We review the basic concept of TO and its advances from macroscopic to the nanoscale regimes..
Review of Optics: a virtual journal
- Publication Date: Jan. 28, 2019
- Vol. 1 Issue 1 014001 (2019)
Semiconductor nanolasers and the size-energy-efficiency challenge: a review
Cun-Zheng Ning
Semiconductor lasers, an important subfield of semiconductor photonics, have fundamentally changed many aspects of our lives and enabled many technologies since their creation in the 1960s. As in other semiconductor-based fields, such as microelectronics, miniaturization has been a constant theme, with nanolasers being an important frontier of research over the last decade. We review the progress, existing issues, and future prospects of nanolasers, especially in relation to their potential application in chip-scale optical interconnects. One of the important challenges in this application is minimizing the size and energy consumption of nanolasers. We begin with the application background of this challenge and then compare basic features of various semiconductor lasers. We present existing issues with nanolasers and discuss potential solutions to meet the size and energy-efficiency challenge. Our discussions cover a broad range of miniaturized lasers, including plasmonic nanolasers and lasers with two-dimensional monolayer gain materials, with focus on near-infrared wavelengths.Semiconductor lasers, an important subfield of semiconductor photonics, have fundamentally changed many aspects of our lives and enabled many technologies since their creation in the 1960s. As in other semiconductor-based fields, such as microelectronics, miniaturization has been a constant theme, with nanolasers being an important frontier of research over the last decade. We review the progress, existing issues, and future prospects of nanolasers, especially in relation to their potential application in chip-scale optical interconnects. One of the important challenges in this application is minimizing the size and energy consumption of nanolasers. We begin with the application background of this challenge and then compare basic features of various semiconductor lasers. We present existing issues with nanolasers and discuss potential solutions to meet the size and energy-efficiency challenge. Our discussions cover a broad range of miniaturized lasers, including plasmonic nanolasers and lasers with two-dimensional monolayer gain materials, with focus on near-infrared wavelengths..
Review of Optics: a virtual journal
- Publication Date: Jan. 28, 2019
- Vol. 1 Issue 1 014002 (2019)
Photonic tractor beams: a review
Weiqiang Ding, Tongtong Zhu, Lei-Ming Zhou, and Cheng-Wei Qiu
Usually, an unfocused light beam, such as a paraxial Gaussian beam, can exert a force on an object along the direction of light propagation, which is known as light pressure. Recently, however, it was found that an unfocused light beam can also exert an optical pulling force (OPF) on an object toward the source direction; the beam is accordingly named an optical tractor beam. In recent years, this intriguing force has attracted much attention and a huge amount of progress has been made both in theory and experiment. We briefly review recent progress achieved on this topic. We classify the mechanisms to achieve an OPF into four different kinds according to the dominant factors. The first one is tailoring the incident beam. The second one is engineering the object’s optical parameters. The third one is designing the structured material background, in which the light–matter interaction occurs, and the fourth one is utilizing the indirect photophoretic force, which is related to the thermal effect of light absorption. For all the methods, we analyze the basic principles and review the recent achievements. Finally, we also give a brief conclusion and an outlook on the future development of this field.Usually, an unfocused light beam, such as a paraxial Gaussian beam, can exert a force on an object along the direction of light propagation, which is known as light pressure. Recently, however, it was found that an unfocused light beam can also exert an optical pulling force (OPF) on an object toward the source direction; the beam is accordingly named an optical tractor beam. In recent years, this intriguing force has attracted much attention and a huge amount of progress has been made both in theory and experiment. We briefly review recent progress achieved on this topic. We classify the mechanisms to achieve an OPF into four different kinds according to the dominant factors. The first one is tailoring the incident beam. The second one is engineering the object’s optical parameters. The third one is designing the structured material background, in which the light–matter interaction occurs, and the fourth one is utilizing the indirect photophoretic force, which is related to the thermal effect of light absorption. For all the methods, we analyze the basic principles and review the recent achievements. Finally, we also give a brief conclusion and an outlook on the future development of this field..
Review of Optics: a virtual journal
- Publication Date: Mar. 27, 2019
- Vol. 1 Issue 2 024001 (2019)
Nonlinear optics in all-dielectric nanoantennas and metasurfaces: a review
Basudeb Sain, Cedrik Meier, and Thomas Zentgraf
Free from phase-matching constraints, plasmonic metasurfaces have contributed significantly to the control of optical nonlinearity and enhancement of nonlinear generation efficiency by engineering subwavelength meta-atoms. Hoshow moreFree from phase-matching constraints, plasmonic metasurfaces have contributed significantly to the control of optical nonlinearity and enhancement of nonlinear generation efficiency by engineering subwavelength meta-atoms. However, high dissipative losses and inevitable thermal heating limit their applicability in nonlinear nanophotonics. All-dielectric metasurfaces, supporting both electric and magnetic Mie-type resonances in their nanostructures, have appeared as a promising alternative to nonlinear plasmonics. High-index dielectric nanostructures, allowing additional magnetic resonances, can induce magnetic nonlinear effects, which, along with electric nonlinearities, increase the nonlinear conversion efficiency. In addition, low dissipative losses and high damage thresholds provide an extra degree of freedom for operating at high pump intensities, resulting in a considerable enhancement of the nonlinear processes. We discuss the current state of the art in the intensely developing area of all-dielectric nonlinear nanostructures and metasurfaces, including the role of Mie modes, Fano resonances, and anapole moments for harmonic generation, wave mixing, and ultrafast optical switching. Furthermore, we review the recent progress in the nonlinear phase and wavefront control using all-dielectric metasurfaces. We discuss techniques to realize all-dielectric metasurfaces for multifunctional applications and generation of second-order nonlinear processes from complementary metal–oxide–semiconductor-compatible materials..
Review of Optics: a virtual journal
- Publication Date: Apr. 03, 2019
- Vol. 1 Issue 2 024002 (2019)
Photonic implementation of boson sampling: a review
Daniel J. Brod, Ernesto F. Galvão, Andrea Crespi, Roberto Osellame... and Fabio Sciarrino|Show fewer author(s)
Boson sampling is a computational problem that has recently been proposed as a candidate to obtain an unequivocal quantum computational advantage. The problem consists in sampling from the output distribution of indistinguishable bosons in a linear interferometer. There is strong evidence that such an experiment is hard to classically simulate, but it is naturally solved by dedicated photonic quantum hardware, comprising single photons, linear evolution, and photodetection. This prospect has stimulated much effort resulting in the experimental implementation of progressively larger devices. We review recent advances in photonic boson sampling, describing both the technological improvements achieved and the future challenges. We also discuss recent proposals and implementations of variants of the original problem, theoretical issues occurring when imperfections are considered, and advances in the development of suitable techniques for validation of boson sampling experiments. We conclude by discussing the future application of photonic boson sampling devices beyond the original theoretical scope.Boson sampling is a computational problem that has recently been proposed as a candidate to obtain an unequivocal quantum computational advantage. The problem consists in sampling from the output distribution of indistinguishable bosons in a linear interferometer. There is strong evidence that such an experiment is hard to classically simulate, but it is naturally solved by dedicated photonic quantum hardware, comprising single photons, linear evolution, and photodetection. This prospect has stimulated much effort resulting in the experimental implementation of progressively larger devices. We review recent advances in photonic boson sampling, describing both the technological improvements achieved and the future challenges. We also discuss recent proposals and implementations of variants of the original problem, theoretical issues occurring when imperfections are considered, and advances in the development of suitable techniques for validation of boson sampling experiments. We conclude by discussing the future application of photonic boson sampling devices beyond the original theoretical scope..
Review of Optics: a virtual journal
- Publication Date: May. 09, 2019
- Vol. 1 Issue 3 034001 (2019)
Petawatt and exawatt class lasers worldwide
Colin N. Danson, Constantin Haefner, Jake Bromage, Thomas Butcher... and Jonathan D. Zuegel|Show fewer author(s)
In the 2015 review paper ‘Petawatt Class Lasers Worldwide’ a comprehensive overview of the current status of high-power facilities of
In the 2015 review paper ‘Petawatt Class Lasers Worldwide’ a comprehensive overview of the current status of high-power facilities of
Review of Optics: a virtual journal
- Publication Date: Jan. 01, 1900
- Vol. 7 Issue 3 03000e54 (2019)
Semiconductor UV Photonics
AlGaN nanocrystals: building blocks for efficient ultraviolet optoelectronics
Xianhe Liu, Kishwar Mashooq, David A. Laleyan, Eric T. Reid, and Zetian Mi
AlGaN nanocrystals have emerged as the building blocks of future optoelectronic devices operating in the ultraviolet (UV) spectral range. In this article, we describe the design and performance characteristics of AlGaN nanocrystal UV light-emitting diodes (LEDs) and surface-emitting UV laser diodes. The selective-area epitaxy and structural, optical, and electrical properties of AlGaN nanocrystals are presented. The recent experimental demonstrations of AlGaN nanocrystal LEDs and laser diodes are also discussed.AlGaN nanocrystals have emerged as the building blocks of future optoelectronic devices operating in the ultraviolet (UV) spectral range. In this article, we describe the design and performance characteristics of AlGaN nanocrystal UV light-emitting diodes (LEDs) and surface-emitting UV laser diodes. The selective-area epitaxy and structural, optical, and electrical properties of AlGaN nanocrystals are presented. The recent experimental demonstrations of AlGaN nanocrystal LEDs and laser diodes are also discussed..
Review of Optics: a virtual journal
- Publication Date: May. 17, 2019
- Vol. 7 Issue 6 06000B12 (2019)
Silicon Photonics
Coupling strategies for silicon photonics integrated chips [Invited] | On the Cover
Riccardo Marchetti, Cosimo Lacava, Lee Carroll, Kamil Gradkowski, and Paolo Minzioni
Over the last 20 years, silicon photonics has revolutionized the field of integrated optics, providing a novel and powerful platform to build mass-producible optical circuits. One of the most attractive aspects of silicon phoshow moreOver the last 20 years, silicon photonics has revolutionized the field of integrated optics, providing a novel and powerful platform to build mass-producible optical circuits. One of the most attractive aspects of silicon photonics is its ability to provide extremely small optical components, whose typical dimensions are an order of magnitude smaller than those of optical fiber devices. This dimension difference makes the design of fiber-to-chip interfaces challenging and, over the years, has stimulated considerable technical and research efforts in the field. Fiber-to-silicon photonic chip interfaces can be broadly divided into two principle categories: in-plane and out-of-plane couplers. Devices falling into the first category typically offer relatively high coupling efficiency, broad coupling bandwidth (in wavelength), and low polarization dependence but require relatively complex fabrication and assembly procedures that are not directly compatible with wafer-scale testing. Conversely, out-of-plane coupling devices offer lower efficiency, narrower bandwidth, and are usually polarization dependent. However, they are often more compatible with high-volume fabrication and packaging processes and allow for on-wafer access to any part of the optical circuit. In this paper, we review the current state-of-the-art of optical couplers for photonic integrated circuits, aiming to give to the reader a comprehensive and broad view of the field, identifying advantages and disadvantages of each solution. As fiber-to-chip couplers are inherently related to packaging technologies and the co-design of optical packages has become essential, we also review the main solutions currently used to package and assemble optical fibers with silicon-photonic integrated circuits..
Review of Optics: a virtual journal
- Publication Date: Jan. 31, 2019
- Vol. 7 Issue 2 02000201 (2019)
About the Cover
<p>Review of Optics: a virtual journal, started in 2019, is a virtual review journal, and it contains high-quality review articles from journals that published by Chinese Laser Press independently or along with its partners. Review of Optics is published quarterly. It aims to provide readers an alternative way to quickly look through high quality review papers. The scope of Review of Optics covers the full area of optics and photonics and relevant interdisciplinary topics, and meanwhile is in accordance with its source journals: Advanced Photonics, Chinese Optics Letters, High Power Laser Science and engineering and Photonics Research.</p>
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