Hybrid nanomaterial–nanophotonics platforms for future photonic integrations

Abstract

Various novel properties are being found in one- and two-dimensional nanomaterials, many of which are considered as promising for photonic applications. However, an issue exists in that the optical interaction cross-section is generally too small, owing to their atomic dimensions. Recently, a number of ways have been proposed and demonstrated for combining them with appropriate nanophotonic platforms to induce strong light confinement, thereby increasing the interactions. This may enable us to employ these novel properties in photonic integrated circuits. This article reviews the results of recent research activities on hybrid nanomaterial–nanophotonic platforms. This technology is promising for future photonic integration, in which we will be able to add various photonic functionalities onto passive Si-based photonic integrated circuits by selectively loading functional nanomaterials.