This research aims to make a substantial contribution to the field of photonics by synergistically exploring the utilization of innovative multiferroic materials while pushing the boundaries of photonic device design. Drawing upon a robust foundation of preliminary data from prior modeling endeavors, this research seeks to realize a practical optical switch through the intricate interplay between multiferroic materials and both electric and magnetic fields. The proposed Anisotropic Photonic Crystal Slab promises to achieve complete photonic band gaps across all polarizations, unlocking a realm of extraordinary phenomena including self-collimation, negative refraction, and zero-index refraction.

The architecture of the photonic device is designed using the CrystalWave numerical simulation suite, which empowers calculations employing the 3D Finite-Difference Time-Domain (FDTD) method across both spatial and frequency domains, alongside the Plane Wave Expansion method. Advanced equipment such as the Direct Laser Writer and E-Beam Lithography will be employed to manufacture prototypes.

The current phase of the investigation has yielded several promising photonic structures, with a select few demonstrating favorable attributes. In collaboration with students from the Department of Material Science and Engineering, various types of multiferroic nanoparticles suitable for this project have been fabricated. Presently, ongoing efforts involve the exploration of the alteration of dielectric constants within diverse polymer-multiferroic nanoparticle blends under the influence of electromagnetic fields.

The proposed research stands poised to drive substantial progress in the realm of Photonics, delivering noteworthy contributions to the evolution of pioneering devices for optical computing while potentially extending its sphere of influence to other scientific domains. These include the advancement of sophisticated photonic solar sails and biosensors.