SIMMETRIA PARITÀ-TEMPO IN OTTICA: VERSO UNA NUOVA INGEGNERIA DELLA LUCE

Abstract

The introduction of the concept of parity-time symmetry in optics, inspired by recent theoretical developments in quantum mechanics and quantum-field theories, is revolutionizing our ability to design and manufacturing synthetic optical materials and photonic devices for molding the flow of light at the micro- and nano-scale, with novel functionalities impossible with ordinary materials and with important applications in the fields of laser technologies, integrated photonics and sensor technology. In this note I will illustrate the basic theoretical grounds of optical materials with paritytime symmetry and I will present the main recent applications to photonic technologies.