Transport through Amorphous Photonic Materials with Localization and Bandgap Regimes

We propose a framework that unifies the description of light transmission through three-dimensional amorphous dielectric materials that exhibit both localization and a photonic bandgap. We argue that direct, coherent reflection near and in the bandgap attenuates the generation of diffuse or localized photons. Using the self-consistent theory of localization and considering the density of states of photons, we can quantitatively describe the total transmission of light for all transport regimes: transparency, light diffusion, localization, and bandgap. Comparison with numerical simulations of light transport through hyperuniform networks supports our theoretical approach.

Automated summary

This study proposes a framework for describing light transmission through three-dimensional amorphous dielectric materials that exhibit both localization and a photonic bandgap. By considering the density of states of photons and coherent reflection, the authors are able to quantitatively describe light transmission in different transport regimes. Numerical simulations support their theoretical approach.