Nonlinear Photonic Topological Insulators

• Applicant: Professor Dr. Alexander Szameit, Ph.D.
• Subject Area: Optics, Quantum Optics and Physics of Atoms, Molecules and Plasmas
• Term: from 2017 to 2023
• Project identifier: Deutsche Forschungsgemeinschaft (DFG) - Project number 388976608

The aim of this proposal is to promote the understanding of new physical phenomena in disordered photonic topological materials, by using coupled optical waveguide systems. In particular, our theoretical and experimental research will address (1) Studies of topological nonlinear modes; (2) studies of novel lattice structures, in particular Lieb and Kagome geometries; (3) Studies of nonlinear wave dynamics in topological media with PT-symmetric lattice structure. Apart from revealing new and fundamental scientific knowledge, which is based on our sophisticated approach of using a highly controllable optical system (i.e., arrays of evanescently coupled waveguides), our results will have immediate technological significance, as they can be used in tele-communication and photonic data processing. We will take advantage of our superior fabrication technology that allows the individual addressing of numerous physical questions. We will combine the experimental work with theoretical analysis, in order to explain our results thoroughly and optimize device performance.The objectives of the proposed work are: (1) We will demonstrate, for the first time in any physical system, topological nonlinear edge modes and a topological soliton; (2) We will investigate, theoretically and experimentally, the impact of geometry on the formation of linear and nonlinear topological modes; (3) We will analyze the formation of solitons ad nonlinear topological edge modes in PT-symmetric photonic media, in theory and experiment. We will determine the regime of existence of such solitons, determine their stability and dynamical properties.

• DFG Programme: Research Grants
• International Connection: Russia
• Partner Organisation: Russian Foundation for Basic Research
• Cooperation Partner: Professor Dr. Yaroslav Kartashov