Controlling Photons, Electrons, and Polaritons at the Nanoscale — Towards the Next Generation of Optoelectronic Devices

Abstract

The behavior of fundamental particles, such as photons and electrons, and quasi-particles, including polaritons and excitons, can be influenced by their surrounding environments. The development and implementation of artificial materials characterized by their low-dimensional structures and nanometric features have facilitated the discovery of a diverse array of previously unanticipated physical phenomena. This thesis examines the control and manipulation of photons, electrons and polaritons at the nanoscale in order to realize novel optoelectronic functionalities. To do so, we focus on further developing two platforms: subwavelength-spaced arrays of nanostructures (metasurfaces) and 2D material to enhance device performance and functionalities. After motivating the use of nanoscale material patterning for wave and dispersion engineering, we highlight several emerging opportunities in electro-optical devices and functionalities. These opportunities range from shaping optical cavity modes with metasurfaces to structured light and 2D-material-based detectors and sources.