Abstract

We introduce a class of critical states which are embedded in the continuum (CSC) of a one-dimensional optical waveguide array with one non-Hermitian defect. These states are on the verge of being fractal and have real propagation constants. They emerge at a phase transition which is driven by the imaginary refractive index of the defective waveguide and it is accompanied by a mode segregation which reveals analogies with the Dicke super-radiance. Below this point the states are extended while above it they evolve to exponentially localized modes. An addition of a background gain or loss can turn these localized states into bound states in the continuum.

Department(s)

Physics

Keywords and Phrases

Refractive Index; Waveguides; Bound State; Critical State; Hermitians; Localization; Localized Modes; Localized State; Optical Waveguide Arrays; Real Propagation; Optical Waveguides

International Standard Serial Number (ISSN)

1367-2630

Document Type

Article - Journal

Document Version

Final Version

File Type

text

Language(s)

English

Rights

© 2015 Institute of Physics - IOP Publishing, All rights reserved.

Publication Date

01 Jan 2015

Included in

Physics Commons

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