FDTD analysis of PBG waveguides, power splitters and switches

Finite two-dimensional photonic bandgap (PBG) structures were analyzed with a finite-difference time-domain (FDTD) full wave, vector Maxwell equation simulator. Removal of particular portions of these PBG structures lead to i nteresting sub-micron-sized waveguiding environments. Several waveguides an d power dividers were designed and evaluated. By introducing further defect s into the PBG waveguiding structures, control of the flow of electromagnet ic energy in these nanometer-sized waveguides can be affected. This effect is demonstrated, and its use to achieve a micron-sized waveguide switch is shown.