Topological corner state localized bound states in continuum in photonic crystals

Abstract

In the field of optics, bound states in the continuum (BICs) are of significant practical importance as they can trap electromagnetic waves spatially, even though their frequency lies within the continuous spectrum. Previous research, however, has shown that BICs localized in optical cavities are highly sensitive to geometric and environmental changes. This sensitivity implies that slight variations can lead to the loss of BICs, necessitating extreme precision in manufacturing, which poses a challenge for practical implementation. To overcome this issue, this study employs topological photonic crystals (PhCs) to engineer topological corner states (TCS) within PhCs. By doing so, it establishes a method for creating topological BICs that are inherently robust against disturbances, thereby enhancing their suitability for real-world applications.