Nonreciprocal 𝜇-near-zero mode in 𝒫𝒯-symmetric magnetic domains

Abstract

We find that a new type of nonreciprocal modes exists at an interface between two parity-time- (PT-) symmetric magnetic domains (MDs) near the frequency of zero effective permeability. This mode is nonpropagating and purely magnetic when the two MDs are semi-infinite, while it becomes propagating in the finite case. In particular, two pronounced nonreciprocal responses could be observed via the excitation of this mode: one-way optical tunneling for oblique incidence and unidirectional beam shift at normal incidence. When the two MDs system becomes finite in size, it is found that perfect-transmission mode could be achieved if PT symmetry is maintained. The unique properties of such an unusual mode are investigated by analytical modal calculation as well as numerical simulations. The results suggest a different approach to the design of compact optical isolator.