Epsilon-near-zero gratings for polarization selectivity

Zero-index materials have emerged as a topic of signifi-cant scientific interest in recent years. In this Letter, we investigate the electromagnetic properties of epsilon-near -zero (ENZ) gratings composed of materials with near-zero effective permittivity. Our study reveals that ENZ gratings exhibit a unique polarization selectivity that is opposite to that observed in perfect conductor gratings. Furthermore, we demonstrate that hybrid gratings combining perfect conductors and ENZ materials can block omnidirectional electromagnetic waves of any polarization. In addition, we propose a practical design of the ENZ and hybrid gratings based on dielectric ENZ MMs, exhibiting excellent polarization selectivity and blocking effect. Our research presents a promising approach for the flexible manipulation of polarizations using ENZ gratings.(c) 2023 Optica Publishing Group

Automated summary

Zero-index materials, specifically epsilon-near-zero (ENZ) gratings, have attracted significant scientific interest due to their unique polarization selectivity and blocking capability. Hybrid gratings combining perfect conductors and ENZ materials can effectively block omnidirectional electromagnetic waves of any polarization. Our research presents a promising approach for flexible polarization manipulation using ENZ gratings.