Electromagnetic waves in nonlinear and linear magnetooptic metamaterials

Mitchell-Thomas, RC

Abstract

This thesis provides an insight into the world of metamaterials, and the way in which
waves propagate within them. It begins with an introduction to metamaterials, that
includes a generic definition and a fascinating array of models are outlined. An emphasis
is placed on the nonlinear properties of metamaterials and their soliton propagation
properties. A thorough investigation of both temporal and spatial solitons is at the heart of
this thesis, and in both cases the nonlinear Schrodinger equation is an appropriate model
for propagation of weakly nonlinear waves. Metamaterials that possess electric and
magnetic nonlinearity are comprehensively described. Additional functionality is added
to the behaviour of spatial solitons through a form of diffraction-management, and the
polarisation dependence of higher-order effects is also discussed. This results in some
interesting outcomes for the role of nonlinear diffraction. For temporal solitons, selfsteepening
and Raman scattering are investigated and it is shown how the metamaterial
properties impact upon their coefficients. For both beams and pulses, the impact of
magnetooptic control is investigated. Once again, polarisation is a vital consideration, and
some important conclusions involving potential wells are examined. All of these ideas are
validated by numerous numerical simulations. The final part of the thesis discusses the
fascinating area of transformation optics and how this new field has developed recently.
The way in which cloaking devices are implemented is described, and the possibility of
adding a magnetooptic switching functionality to the standard electromagnetic cloak is
presented. Finally, conclusions are given and some comments about the future directions
are made.

Citation

Mitchell-Thomas, R. Electromagnetic waves in nonlinear and linear magnetooptic metamaterials. (Thesis). University of Salford

• Thesis Type: Thesis
• Deposit Date: Aug 12, 2021
• Award Date: Nov 1, 2011