Single-Domain Spectroscopy of Self-Assembled Photonic Crystals

Yu. A. Vlasov, M. Deutsch, D. J. Norris

We show how optical microscopy can be used to study the optical properties of a single crystalline domain in a self-assembled photonic crystal. By measuring spatially resolved reflection and emission spectra from a synthetic opal, inhomogeneities due to averaging over inherent disorder can be avoided. From "defect-free" reflection and emission spectra, the intrinsic photonic band structure can be extracted and inhibition of spontaneous emission can be verified.