Abstract

We propose a metamaterial-based scheme for light-induced static magnetic field generation by rectifying the dynamic magnetic field. The dynamic magnetoelectric coupling localized in the metamaterials drives the electrons to drift unidirectionally, generating static magnetic fields. Explicit theoretical models and numerical simulations demonstrate that the established static magnetic field is in subtesla field strength at deep-subwavelength scale with ultrafast response, and its properties can be artificially designed and manipulated by tuning the structure of metamaterials or the pumping light. Such strategy offers a superior platform for studying and controlling magnetizations and spin effects with a high degree of precision and freedom.

• 
• 
• 
• 
• 

• Received 12 August 2023
• Revised 5 January 2024
• Accepted 10 January 2024

DOI:https://doi.org/10.1103/PhysRevApplied.21.L021001

© 2024 American Physical Society

Physics Subject Headings (PhySH)

1. Research Areas

Faraday effectLight-induced magnetic effectsLight-matter interactionMagnetismMetamaterialsSpin optoelectronics

1. Techniques

Classical electromagnetismFinite-element method

Atomic, Molecular & OpticalCondensed Matter, Materials & Applied Physics