Tuning Fabry-Perot resonances via diffraction evanescent waves

By studying acoustic and electromagnetic wave transmission through a periodic array of subwavelength holes or slits with various channel lengths, we demonstrate both experimentally and theoretically that diffraction evanescent waves can play an important role in tuning the Fabry-Perot (FP) resonances. In particular, there can be total transmission peaks at wavelengths much below that of the Rayleigh-Wood limit, and FP resonances can occur for channel length similar to 16% thinner than the half wavelength. In addition, the FP resonance condition can be tuned via both the periodicity and area fraction of holes. As a function of the ratio between the periodicity and plate thickness, the FP resonance is smoothly linked to the surface-wave-like mode induced by the periodic structure factor.