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Beyond metamaterials: Designing novel optical materials from Angstrom-scale interactions

Objective

Modern state-of-the-art optoelectronic devices are subject to constant miniaturization. While electronic modules are still scalable, photonic components remain bulky, due to drastically larger wavelengths of photons compared to electrons. Light-matter interactions in the nanoscale can be engineered with metamaterials, by controlling the structural complexity of materials systems. However, practical fabrication limitations do not allow good precision beyond tens of nanometers, neither do they yield high-quality material properties. By contrast, two-dimensional (2D) materials like graphene or transition-metal dichalcogenides open routes for controlling light-matter interactions down to single atom thickness. To date, graphene-photonics investigate either a single sheet, or multiple ones separated by hundreds of nanometers-microns. I propose exploring a new regime of atomic-scale photonics, studying interacting 2D materials in van der Waals (vdW) heterostructures with periodicity in the Angstrom-scale. The transport properties of vdW stacks are already being explored, and their experimental realization is within reach with growth, exfoliation and intercalation. Contrary to conventional nanophotonics where light-matter interactions are tailored by controlling the geometrical features of metamaterials, at the atomic-scale arises the notion of (meta)materials by material design. Combining lattice vibrations, excitons and plasmons, supported in the large canvas of newly discovered 2D materials spanning dielectric, semiconducting and metallic properties, respectively, can lead to functional Angstrom-scale metastructures. Addressing both technological needs and fundamental science issues, my objectives include: taking advantage of graphene’s low-electron mass for surpassing the reflective properties of noble metals, utilizing the low mass density of vdW systems for tailoring Casimir forces, and exploring anisotropic vdW arrangements for directional light emission.

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Keywords

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Programme(s)

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Topic(s)

Calls for proposals are divided into topics. A topic defines a specific subject or area for which applicants can submit proposals. The description of a topic comprises its specific scope and the expected impact of the funded project.

Funding Scheme

Funding scheme (or “Type of Action”) inside a programme with common features. It specifies: the scope of what is funded; the reimbursement rate; specific evaluation criteria to qualify for funding; and the use of simplified forms of costs like lump sums.

MSCA-IF - Marie Skłodowska-Curie Individual Fellowships (IF)

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Call for proposal

Procedure for inviting applicants to submit project proposals, with the aim of receiving EU funding.

(opens in new window) H2020-MSCA-IF-2017

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Coordinator

KING'S COLLEGE LONDON
Net EU contribution

Net EU financial contribution. The sum of money that the participant receives, deducted by the EU contribution to its linked third party. It considers the distribution of the EU financial contribution between direct beneficiaries of the project and other types of participants, like third-party participants.

€ 183 454,80
Address
STRAND
WC2R 2LS London
United Kingdom

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Region
London Inner London — West Westminster
Activity type
Higher or Secondary Education Establishments
Links
Total cost

The total costs incurred by this organisation to participate in the project, including direct and indirect costs. This amount is a subset of the overall project budget.

€ 183 454,80
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