Merging Spintronics and Plasmonics:The Confluence of Spin and Plasmons for Novel On Chip Devices
Abstract
This research experimentally studies the interplay between magnetism, light, and electric (spin) charge in meso-scale and nano-scale structures. The objective is to experimentally investigate the physics at these scales in the femtosecond time regime, spectral bands higher than THz, with low energy usage in the pico Joule range. 1) OBJECTIVES AND PROJECT OUTLINE MOTIVATION: The interplay between magnetism, light and electric charge in meso and nano?scale structures provides solutions to roadblocks in functionality, performance and scalability of future photonic, nano?electronic, and hybrid photonic?electronic devices. The convergence of spintronics, plasmonics and quantum transport permits control of integrated device functionality in unprecedented time scales (fs), spectral bandwidths (beyond THz), compactness (nm?scale) and low energy consumption (pJ). Furthermore, the manipulation of the electron spin, the properties of photons and charge carrier transport in one integrated nano?scale physical platform, provides a fertile ground for scientific discoveries and will enable the development of the next generation photonic and electronic quantum devices. OBJECTIVES AND GOALS: The objective of this project is to unlock new physics and device concepts via the control of magnetic moment and electron spin orientation through plasmonic excitations in metallic nanostructures. Our goals are to 1) theoretically and experimentally investigate interactions between surface plasmons and the magnetic moment/electron spin, and to 2) show the potential of future hybrid magneto?nanophotonic device concepts using novel integrated plasmonic and magnetic material platforms by realizing a proof?of?concept experiment where the orientation of the magnetic moment and electron spin is switched via surface?plasmon mediated coupling. VISION AND RATIONALE: The proposed project aims at discovering new physics and revealing new functionalities and potential applications using nanoplasmonic structures coupled to nanomagnets. Such a transition from control of the magnetic moment orientation by injection of spin currents (ns switching) or via free?space light (fs switching) to on?chip compatible structures opens up new avenues for the manipulation of the electron spin, the properties of photons and charge carrier transport in one integrated nano?scale structure, thus unlocking new physical phenomena and enabling hybrid photonic/electronic quantum devices. PROJECT OUTLINE: In order to reach our research objectives, we will focus on two interconnected Thrust Areas. Thrust 1 will explore the interactions of nanoplasmonic structures with nanomagnets. In Thrust 2 we will explore the potential of applying the plasmonic metasurfaces concept to on?chip control of magnetic moment orientation. In both Thrusts we will develop the theoretical framework needed to understand the physics, the dynamics and the materials requirements for solid?state interactions of plasmons and electron spin. BROADER IMPACTS AND DOD RELEVANCE: The broader impacts of the project fall into the following categories: science, education and outreach, and knowledge/technology transfer. The knowledge gained within the proposed research will be transferred to a broad community of scientists, engineers and the general public. The project will impact science and technology by developing basic knowledge applicable to expanding communication, sensing, imaging, and information technologies. The project will provide hands?on training in state?of?the?art facilities and help to train the next generation of scientists and engineers for DoD agencies and laboratories. The innovative proposed research program will contribute to the ONR’s mission to develop a new generation of combat devices/systems that are efficient, compact, versatile, and multifunctional. Purdue University Merging Spintronics and Plasmonics 1
Document Details
- Document Type
- DoD Grant Award
- Publication Date
- Nov 23, 2016
- Source ID
- N000141613003
Entities
People
- Esteban Marinero-caceres
Organizations
- Office of Naval Research
- United States Navy
- University of Virginia