Keynote Tu-K: Plasmonics — A path to replace photonics by a scalable, ultrafast technology?

Abstract

Plasmonics is increasingly touted as a solution to replace traditional photonics. And indeed, a new generation of passive and active plasmonic elements is emerging. Unlike photonic devices these plasmonic elements feature a tiny footprint in combination with an almost unlimited bandwidth. Yet, plasmonic devices also suffer from high losses. The question then is where and when plasmonics really can make a difference. In this talk, we will review and comment the latest generation of plasmonic devices encompassing plasmonic electro-optical modulators, detectors, RF-receivers, couplers and waveguides and compare them against devices relying on the traditional silicon technology.