Optical wave propagation in parity-time (PT) symmetric potentials

在这项研究计划中，我们建议探索，第一次，几个基本问题的性质和行为的光束和波的宇称时间（PT）对称结构。提出的工作将主要集中在实验实现和光学模型系统的改进。我们基于光折变衬底材料的初步研究已经证明了该系统适用于研究理论预测的新的和意想不到的效应，如非磁性材料中的非互易光传播，人工双折射和功率振荡。在波导阵列等周期性系统中，并通过应用所用衬底材料LiNbO3的固有非线性特性，我们将演示空间光学PT孤子并研究此类系统中的横向能量流。最后，虽然我们的努力集中在揭示和展示PT光学的基本物理，我们也将探索实现不依赖于法拉第效应的新型光隔离器或环行器的可能性。

In this research program we propose to explore, for the first time, several fundamental issues concerning the properties and behaviour of optical beams and waves in parity-time (PT) symmetric structures. The work proposed will be mostly concentrated on experimental realizations and improvements of optical model systems. Our preliminary investigations based on a photorefractive substrate material have already proven the suitability of this system to investigate theoretically predicted new and unexpected effects like non-reciprocal light propagation in non-magnetic materials, artificial double refraction, and power oscillations. In periodic systems like waveguide arrays, and by applying the inherent nonlinear properties of the used substrate material lithium niobate, we will demonstrate spatial optical PT solitons and investigate transverse energy flow in such systems. Finally, while our effort is focused on uncovering and demonstrating the underlying physics of PT optics, we will also explore the possibility of realizing new types of optical isolators or circulators that does not rely on the Faraday effect.