photonic crystal
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photonic crystal
[fə‚tän·ik ′krist·əl] (optics)
A macroscopic, periodic dielectric structure that possesses spectral gaps (stop bands) for electromagnetic waves, in analogy with the energy bands and gaps in regular semiconductors. Also known as photonic band-gap material.
McGraw-Hill Dictionary of Scientific & Technical Terms, 6E, Copyright © 2003 by The McGraw-Hill Companies, Inc.
photonic crystal
A nanostructured array of holes used as an optical semiconductor. Just as electronic bandgaps prevent electrons from passing through, photonic crystals create photonic bandgaps that confine light. This technology increases the efficiency in optical fibers and allow microscopic lasers to be built. It is also expected to be used in the construction of photonic circuits that can stand-alone or be integrated into semiconductor circuits. See bandgap.Copyright © 1981-2019 by The Computer Language Company Inc. All Rights reserved. THIS DEFINITION IS FOR PERSONAL USE ONLY. All other reproduction is strictly prohibited without permission from the publisher.