Topological light transport in low-symmetry valley photonic crystals

Abstract

Valley photonic crystals represent a cornerstone in the field of topological photonics, which promotes the development of cutting-edge photonic waveguides. These waveguides support robust transmission by using valley-dependent edge states. This innovation marks a great leap forward in enhancing transmission efficiency, (especially in sharp bends), thus opening up a new way for efficient optical information transmission. However, although the role of symmetry in topology and photonic crystals cannot be exaggerated, it is worth noting that valley photonic crystals provide a unique platform for exploring the interplay between symmetry and topological phenomena. An intriguing analogy between valley photonic crystals and the quantum valley Hall effect is an example, which will be shown when the symmetry of spatial inversion is broken. At present, the characteristic of most valley photonic crystals is <i>C</i>₃-rotational symmetry, which leads to an interesting study, that is, whether crystals with lower symmetry can also support topological light transmission. In order to solve this problem head-on, our work focuses on constructing and characterizing valley photonic crystals with low symmetry by carefully adjusting the unit cell morphology. Through theoretical analysis and numerical simulation, we unveil the remarkable ability of these low-symmetry valley photonic crystals to facilitate topological light transport. Initially, we analyze the bulk bands of these low-symmetry crystals, observing a narrowed photonic band gap and a shift in the irreducible Brillouin zone compared with <i>C</i>₃-rotation symmetric crystals. To examine edge state transmission, we calculate dispersion relations and electric field distributions, revealing two edge states with opposite phase chirality at the same frequency. Using this point, we achieve unidirectional excitation of edge states. Additionally, we manipulate the refractive index of the surrounding medium and explore various scenarios of external light beam coupling. Moreover, we investigate the robust transmission of edge states, demonstrating smooth passage of light through sharp corners in <i>Z</i>-shaped bend waveguides without backscattering. In conclusion, our findings underscore the pivotal role played by edge states in facilitating unidirectional excitation and robust transmission in low-symmetry valley photonic crystals. By enriching the diversity of topological photonic structures and providing valuable insights into the behavior of topological light transport in structures with lower symmetry, our work contributes to the ongoing quest for novel photonic platforms with enhanced functions and performance.