On-chip single photon sources using planar photonic crystals and single quantum dots

We review the basic light-matter interactions and optical properties of chip-based single photon sources, that are enabled by integrating single quantum dots with planar photonic crystals. A theoretical framework is presented that allows one to connect to a wide range of quantum light propagation effects in a physically intuitive and straightforward way. We focus on the important mechanisms of enhanced spontaneous emission, and efficient photon extraction, using all-integrated photonic crystal components including waveguides, cavities, quantum dots and output couplers. The limitations, challenges, and exciting prospects of developing on-chip quantum light sources using integrated photonic crystal structures are discussed. [GRAPHICS] A sequence of optical pulses (top right) interacting with a single quantum dot embedded in a photonic crystal system, resulting in the emission of a train of single photons on-chip. (C) 2010 by WILEY-VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim