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arXiv · 1210.2027

Effective spontaneous PT-symmetry breaking in hybridized metamaterials

Ming Kang·Fu Liu·Jensen Li
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Abstract

We show that metamaterials can be used as a testing ground to investigate spontaneous symmetry breaking associated with non-Hermitian quantum systems. By exploring the interplay between near-field dipolar coupling and material absorption or gain, we demonstrate various spontaneous breaking processes of the $\mathcal{PT}$-symmetry for a series of effective Hamiltonians associated to the scattering matrix. By tuning the coupling parameter, coherent perfect absorption, laser action and gain-induced complete reflection ($π$ reflector) by using an ultra-thin metamaterial can be obtained. Moreover, an ideal $\mathcal{PT}$-symmetry can be established effectively in a passive system by exploring the balance between scattering and absorption loss using metamaterials.

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Ming Kang, Fu Liu, Jensen Li. 2013-03-15. Effective spontaneous PT-symmetry breaking in hybridized metamaterials. https://doi.org/10.1103/physreva.87.053824

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