PT symmetry and exceptional points in metamaterials

Gear, James Manning (2017). PT symmetry and exceptional points in metamaterials. University of Birmingham. Ph.D.

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Abstract

Parity-Time (PT) symmetry has recently received much attention as a promising alternative to the condition of Hermiticity. PT symmetric systems have two distinct phases where behaviour is split between Hermitian evolution where it has real eigenvalues and non-Hermitian evolution where it has complex eigenvalues. At the crossover between these two phases, there is an exceptional point: a special kind of eigenvalue degeneracy unique to non-Hermitian system which can result in interesting properties.
In this thesis, we will first review the field of metamaterials and show how they can be used to design electromagnetic potentials. We will also review the current understanding of PT symmetry and its associated effects in electromagnetism. We will then develop a new form of parity operator which can be used in conjunction with the time-reversal operator to derive new conditions on the constitutive matrix. This parity operator will then be used to understand the link between PT symmetry and exceptional points with experimental support from a metamaterial system. We will additionally look at some other applications of PT symmetry, specifically in the context of lasing and absorption, and attempt to design a structure which uses this symmetry.

Type of Work:

Thesis (Doctorates > Ph.D.)

Award Type:

Doctorates > Ph.D.

Supervisor(s):