Photonic Crystals: Physical Principles, Fabrication Methods, and Applications in Emerging Optical Technologies

Photonic crystals are artificial periodic structures that provide precise control over the propagation of electromagnetic waves through periodic modulation of the refractive index. Due to the formation of photonic band gaps, these structures can prohibit light propagation within specific frequency ranges and enable advanced manipulation of optical waves. Since their introduction, photonic crystals have become one of the fundamental platforms in nanophotonics, enabling the development of compact optical devices with improved performance, reduced losses, and enhanced light–matter interaction.Recent advances in nanofabrication technologies have significantly expanded the practical applications of photonic crystals in optical communication systems, integrated photonic circuits, biosensors, semiconductor lasers, and quantum information technologies. This paper presents a comprehensive review of the fundamental concepts of photonic crystals, including their physical principles, photonic band gap formation, structural classifications, fabrication approaches, engineered defects, and practical applications. Furthermore, recent research trends, current challenges, and future perspectives of photonic crystal technologies are discussed.

کلیدواژه ها:

Photonic crystals ، photonic band gap ، nanophotonics ، photonic crystal fibers ، integrated photonics ، optical sensors ، quantum photonics