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

在这个研究项目中，我们首次提出了几个关于奇偶时间(PT)对称结构中光束和波的性质和行为的基本问题。提出的工作将主要集中在光学模型系统的实验实现和改进上。我们基于光折变衬底材料的初步研究已经证明，该系统适用于研究理论上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输、人工双折射和功率振荡。在像波导阵列阵这样的周期系统中，通过应用所用衬底材料LiNbO4固有的非线性性质，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演示PT光学的基本物理，但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.