Electrically switchable anisotropic polariton propagation in a ferroelectric van der Waals semiconductor

In-plane anisotropic exciton-polariton propagation in SnSe enables nanoscale imaging of the in-plane ferroelectric domains Tailoring of the propagation dynamics of exciton-polaritons in two-dimensional quantum materials has shown extraordinary promise to enable nanoscale control of electromagnetic fields. Varying permittivities along crystal directions within layers of material systems, can lead to an in-plane anisotropic dispersion of polaritons. Exploiting this physics as a control strategy for manipulating the directional propagation of the polaritons is desired and remains elusive. Here we explore the in-plane anisotropic exciton-polariton propagation in SnSe, a group-IV monochalcogenide semiconductor that forms ferroelectric domains and shows room-temperature excitonic behaviour. Exciton-polaritons are launched in SnSe multilayer plates, and their propagation dynamics and dispersion are studied. This propagation of exciton-polaritons allows for nanoscale imaging of the in-plane ferroelectric domains. Finally, we demonstrate the electric switching of the exciton-polaritons in the ferroelectric domains of this complex van der Waals system. The study suggests that systems such as group-IV monochalcogenides could serve as excellent ferroic platforms for actively reconfigurable polaritonic optical devices.

Automated summary

In-plane anisotropic exciton-polariton propagation in SnSe allows for nanoscale imaging of in-plane ferroelectric domains. The control and manipulation of exciton-polaritons in two-dimensional quantum materials has the potential for nanoscale control of electromagnetic fields. By studying the propagation dynamics and dispersion of exciton-polaritons in SnSe, a group-IV monochalcogenide semiconductor, it was found that this propagation enables imaging of the in-plane ferroelectric domains. Additionally, electric switching of exciton-polaritons in the ferroelectric domains of this complex van der Waals system was demonstrated, suggesting the potential for reconfigurable polaritonic optical devices.