# Optics at interfaces: ultra-thin color coatings, perfect absorbers, and metasurfaces

 Title: Optics at interfaces: ultra-thin color coatings, perfect absorbers, and metasurfaces Author: Kats, Mikhail A Citation: Kats, Mikhail A. 2014. Optics at interfaces: ultra-thin color coatings, perfect absorbers, and metasurfaces. Doctoral dissertation, Harvard University. Full Text & Related Files: Kats_gsas.harvard_0084L_11275.pdf (46.87Mb; PDF) Abstract: The vast majority of optical components and devices in use today can be grouped under the umbrella of bulk optics''; i.e. they generally have a non-negligible thickness compared to the wavelength of light. This is true of components from lenses to wave plates to Fabry-Perot etalons, all of which need sufficient thickness such that light waves can accumulate an appropriate amount of phase upon propagation through the structure. In this thesis, we develop and explore a variety of optical components that are thin compared to the wavelength of light and lie at the interface between two materials (i.e. a substrate and air). We explore approaches to filter, absorb, redirect, and re-shape light with flat, ultra-thin structures which are easy to fabricate with modern micro- and nanofabrication techniques. Terms of Use: This article is made available under the terms and conditions applicable to Other Posted Material, as set forth at http://nrs.harvard.edu/urn-3:HUL.InstRepos:dash.current.terms-of-use#LAA Citable link to this page: http://nrs.harvard.edu/urn-3:HUL.InstRepos:11745700 Downloads of this work: