Photonics of micro and nano structured materials

The maturation of the fields of optoelectronics and optical physics means that attention is being focused on realization of novel micro- and nanostructured materials as a base of investigation of new photonic devices and effects. Here we propose a comprehensive project comprising theoretical study, modelling, design, fabrication and characterisation of new photonic nanostructures and devices for bio-medical and industrial applications. Theoretical studies and numerical modelling of linear and nonlinear properties of photonic band-gap materials, metamaterials and quantum nanostructures, will drive the design of passive and active in-fibre and on-chip photonic components. Recognizing the increasing importance of experiment for staying competitive at international level, we will extend experimental capabilities of our laboratory at Vinča to a multi-purpose experimental-fabrication facility. In particular, we plan to set up a facility for laser-fabrication and characterization of micro- and nanostructured photonic devices. An efficient training programme for the young researchers will be established with the support from our extensive network of foreign partners. Based upon the recent and proposed activities, the first foreseeable application coming out of this project will be a long-period grating curvature fibre-sensor for non-invasive medical diagnostics, which will be followed by a series of other fibre-sensors, all-optical integrated circuits and active photonic devices.