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Abstract We present a metal–semiconductor (M–S) based electro-optic modulator designed for functional plasmonic circuits, utilizing the active control of surface plasmon polaritons (SPPs) at M–S junction interfaces. Through self-consistent multiphysics simulations, including electromagnetic, thermal, and current–voltage (IV) characteristics, we estimate bias- and doping concentration-dependent SPP modulation and switching times. This study focuses on germanium-based Schottky contacts and can be extended to other semiconducting materials. We performed parametric analysis using the developed thermo-electro-optic model to identify device parameters and dimensions for enhanced optical confinement and faster operation. The studied device exhibits signal modulation exceeding −28 dB, responsivity greater than −1800 dB V⁻¹, and switching rates of 8 GHz, suggesting potential data rates above 16 Gbit s⁻¹. Additionally, frequency response analysis using the numerical model confirms the device’s electrical tunability and predicts a 3 dB bandwidth of up to 4 GHz. These findings highlight the significant potential of Schottky junctions as active components in the development of plasmonic-based integrated circuits. 

Abstract This article introduces a flexible and reliable tabletop setup, specifically designed to effectively demonstrate fundamental optics concepts to a wide audience, including students from grades 5 through 12, university students, as well as enthusiasts. Leveraging additive manufacturing technology, this work provides an adaptable and accessible avenue for educators, students, and enthusiasts to explore the captivating realm of optics and optoelectronics. The article delves into detailed discussions of the experiments that can be conducted with the proposed setup to elucidate these concepts, presenting their outcomes comprehensively. Moreover, all the Computer Aided Design (CAD) files utilized in this project for 3D printing the essential optical components and systems are made available online for free, enabling users to develop the setup from scratch independently. The proposed setup offers an easily approachable design process, requiring minimal to no prior CAD experience. The experiments performed to illustrate optical concepts are straightforward and safe, making them easily comprehensible and achievable for students at various educational levels. 

We present a transient response study of a semiconductor based plasmonic switch. The proposed device operates through active control and modulation of localized electron density waves, i.e., surface plasmon polaritons (SPPs) at degenerately doped In_0.53Ga_0.47As based PN⁺⁺junctions. A set of devices is designed and fabricated, and its optical and electronic behaviors are studied both experimentally and theoretically. Optical characterization shows far-field reflectivity modulation, a result of electrical tuning of the SPPs at the PN⁺⁺junctions for mid-IR wavelengths, with significant 3 dB bandwidths. Numerical studies using a self-consistent electro-optic multi-physics model are performed to uncover the temporal response of the devices’ electromagnetic and kinetic mechanisms facilitating the SPP switching at the PN⁺⁺junctions. Numerical simulations show strong synergy with the experimental results, validating the claim of potential optoelectronic switching with a 3 dB bandwidth as high as 2 GHz. Thus, this study confirms that the presented SPP diode architecture can be implemented for high-speed control of SPPs through electrical means, providing a pathway toward fast all-semiconductor plasmonic devices.