One-dimensional spin-flipping topological edge state laser

Topological edge states manifest spin-momentum-locking propagation as a primary consequence of topological crystals. However, experimental studies on spin manipulation and the resulting propagation of these states are lacking. Here, we demonstrate experimentally spin manipulation of topological edge...

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Bibliographic Details
Main Authors: Jhih-Sheng Wu, Zhen-Ting Huang, Meng-Ting Han, Yen-Hsun Chen, Tien-Chang Lu
Format: Article
Language:English
Published: AIP Publishing LLC 2025-06-01
Series:APL Photonics
Online Access:http://dx.doi.org/10.1063/5.0265382
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Summary:Topological edge states manifest spin-momentum-locking propagation as a primary consequence of topological crystals. However, experimental studies on spin manipulation and the resulting propagation of these states are lacking. Here, we demonstrate experimentally spin manipulation of topological edge states by the boundary conditions of the one-dimensional path. Armchair boundaries at the end points of the path induce spin-flipping backscattering. A closed trip of the topological edge states is formed due to backscattering, and a novel resonance with spin-flipping emerges. Interestingly, this resonance cannot be a standing wave since two opposite-going topological edge states have opposite spins. Therefore, this resonance is a traveling-wave resonance analogous to laser gyroscopes. Remarkably, we demonstrate lasing of this one-dimensional traveling-wave resonance. Our findings hold significant potential for practical applications in spin manipulation of light.
ISSN:2378-0967