Photonic Crystals

Abstract In this paper, we review the early motivation for photonic crystal research which was derived from the need for a photonic bandgap in quantum optics. This led to a series of experimental and theoretical searches for the elusive photonic bandgap structures: those three-dimensionally periodic dielectric structures which are to photon waves, as semiconductor crystals are to electron waves. We shall describe how the photonic semiconductor can be ‘doped’, producing tiny electromagnetic cavities. Finally, we shall summarize some of the anticipated implications of photonic band structure for quantum electronics and the prospects for the creation of photonic crystals in the optical domain.