Optimization of Nanopatterned Multilayer Hyperbolic Metamaterials for Spontaneous Light Emission Enhancement

Light emission processes can be modified through the Purcell effect near a metallic surface. Such effect relies on the matching between spontaneous emission spectra and surface plasmon resonances, and the latter is typically limited by the existing metal properties. Nanopatterned multilayer hyperbolic metamaterials (HMMs) with engineerable material property are promising in enhancing spontaneous emission rates at desired frequencies with improved far‐field radiative power. In this work, the authors study the optimization process for spontaneous emission enhancement by using nanopatterned HMMs. By theoretically investigating the Purcell effect on HMMs compared with traditional metals, the authors choose better material combinations for stronger Purcell enhancement. Different decay channels in the HMM are analyzed against the emitter distance and their wavelengths. Systematic optimization of achieving large emission intensity is demonstrated by comparing performance of nanopatterned HMMs with different geometry parameters. The promise in achieving light emission with both high decay rates and brightness has various potential applications including light‐emitting devices, single‐molecule detection, and surface‐enhanced Raman scattering.