Frequency-chirped subwavelength nanoantennas

Abstract

Herein we propose, theoretically investigate, and numerically demonstrate the first use to our knowledge of frequency chirping to achieve broadband, efficient subwavelength vertical emission from a dielectric waveguide. We demonstrate this unique and effective approach in the telecom C band in a nanophotonic frequency-chirped dipole antenna. The structure utilizes a plasmonic antenna placed above an ${\mathrm{Si}}_3{\mathrm{N}}_4$ waveguide and a ground plane to enhance emission efficiency. Three-dimensional finite-difference time-domain simulations reveal up to 55% vertical emission efficiency, and a bandwidth of 500 nm is possible in a structure less than half a wavelength long. The design methodology and theoretical underpinnings of frequency-chirped nanophotonic antennas coupled to dielectric waveguides are presented.

© 2012 Optical Society of America