Properties of one-dimensional magnetophotonic crystals for use in optical isolator devices

A one-dimensional (1-D) magnetophotonic crystal (MPC) film made of a magneto-optical layer with nonmagnetic layers laminated thereon has an enhanced Faraday rotation. Theoretical studies about 1-D MPC films for use in magneto-optical (MO) applications of optical communication were carried out. The calculations revealed that required optical isolator performance (transmittance T>95% and Faraday rotation angle θ_F=45°) can be fulfilled with the periodic multilayer films having only two or three magnetic layers. The structure of 1-D MPC films satisfying the optical isolator performance is very simple, which is very attractive for actual optical isolator fabrication.