Light in correlated disordered media

Abstract

The study of optics in correlated disordered media combines wave physics, complex media, and nanophotonics. Investigations have shown how subwavelength structural correlations control light scattering, transport, and localization. This article reviews the formalism behind light scattering in disordered media, experimental techniques, and achievements in studying light interaction with correlated disorder. It explores phenomena like optical transparency, superdiffusive transport, and photonic gaps, offering new perspectives for applications. The research covers systems from photonic liquids to hyperuniform disordered photonic materials, and addresses mesoscopic phenomena and disorder engineering for light-energy management.