▎ 摘 要
We propose and simulate numerically a permittivity-tunable metamaterial channel, which is composed of alternating layers of graphene and silica. The real part of the permittivity of the proposed metamaterial can be tuned from a positive value to a negative one for a broadband width. Furthermore, optical waves can pass through the metamaterial channel only when its permittivity is tuned to zero. Inspired by this intriguing property of the graphene-silica metamaterial, three basic electro-optical logic gates, including NOT, NOR, and NAND gates, were proposed and numerically investigated by using the finite element method. Taking advantage of the permittivity-tunable property of graphene, the working wavelength of the proposed electro-optical logic gates can be actively controlled by tuning the external voltage applied on the graphene-silica metamaterial. These tunable and ultracompact electro-optical logic gates could benefit the development of nanoscale optical devices for highly integrated photonic circuits. (C) 2016 Society of Photo-Optical Instrumentation Engineers (SPIE)