Controlling the polarization state of rare-earth emissions in tellurite glasses from plasmonic nanostructures

Abstract

This proposal refers to a collaborative work that involves the Centre d'optique, photonique et laser (COPL) of the Université Laval in Canada. It has a scientific research character with potential technological applications in nano-photonics. The polarization control in the infrared region of the emission of Er3+, Yb3+ and Pr3+ ions doped in a tellurite glass matrix is the basis for a wide of applications. This control may be possible using plasmonic nanostructures fabricated in metallic films such as gold and silver. In addition, to increase the local electric field in the regions close to the nanostructure (metal/substrate interface), nanostructures in the shape of nano-cavities are capable of enhancing some modes and generating extraordinary optical transmission of light. The control of the light polarization is obtained via modifications of the geometry of these nanostructures. In this project, bull's eyes nanostructures fabricated in gold films will provide us control of the light polarization states, besides generate an intense and well-focused light transmission. The samples are based on tellurite glasses, and visible to near-infrared emission will be studied. The mechanisms responsible for this control are still being studied and are giving rise to new concepts and effects in quantum plasmonics. Therefore, polarization control has a quantum optics approach, using the Stokes formalism for light polarization states. Furthermore, the interaction of rare-earth ions and plasmonic nanostructures will provide a better understanding of the coupling mechanisms between quantum emitters and the plasmon. (AU)