Simple layer-by-layer photonic crystal for the control of thermal emission

Abstract

We present a theoretical and experimental study of a simple layer-by-layer photonic crystal structure designed for the control of the thermal emission in the infrared wavelength domain. We show that a relatively simple structure made of alternated ZnSe homogenous layers and gold microstructured grids can act as a thermal source itself giving us the unique opportunity to tailor its emission spectra. Comparisons between computed and measured transmission and emissivity spectra illustrate the relevance of our approach.