Funneling Spontaneous Emission into Waveguides via Epsilon-Near-Zero Metamaterials

In this work, we discuss the use of epsilon-near-zero (ENZ) metamaterials to efficiently couple light radiated by a dipolar source to an in-plane waveguide. We exploit both enhanced and directional emission provided by ENZ metamaterials to optimize the injection of light into the waveguide by tuning the metal fill factor. We show that a net increase in intensity injected into the waveguide with respect to the total power radiated by the isolated dipole can be achieved in experimentally feasible conditions. We think the proposed system may open up new opportunities for several optical applications and integrated technologies, especially for those limited by outcoupling efficiency and emission rate.

Automated summary

This work discusses using epsilon-near-zero (ENZ) metamaterials to efficiently couple light from a dipolar source to an in-plane waveguide, optimizing the injection of light by tuning the metal fill factor. The study demonstrates a net increase in injected intensity in experimentally feasible conditions compared to total radiated power from the isolated dipole, suggesting new opportunities for optical applications and integrated technologies limited by outcoupling efficiency and emission rate.