Two-dimensional photonic crystal nanocavities for light localization

Summary form only given. Optical resonant cavities formed from two-dimensionally periodic high-index contrast dielectric slabs maybe used to effectively guide or trap light in spatial volumes of a few cubic half-wavelengths. We present recent room temperature laser results, as well as tuning of the cavity modes through adjustments in the local defect region, and the splitting of the cavity mode degeneracy into a pair of x and y polarized modes. Progress to date and limitations in terms of obtainable Q cavity and fabrication tolerances will also be addressed.