Far-field emission profiles from L3 photonic crystal cavity modes

We experimentally characterize the spatial far-field emission profiles for the two lowest confined modes of a photonic crystal cavity of the L3 type, finding a good agreement with FDTD simulations. We then link the far-field profiles to relevant features of the cavity mode near-fields, using a simple Fabry–Perot resonator model. The effect of disorder on far-field cavity profiles is clarified through comparison between experiments and simulations. These results can be useful for emission engineering from active centers embedded in the cavity.

► The experimental characterization of the far-field emission profiles of the modes of a L3 photonic crystal cavity.
► A detailed study of the effect of disorder and fabrication imperfections on the far-field profiles.
► A simple Fabry–Perot model which allows us to get a clear physical picture of the link between relevant features of the far-field profiles and parameters of the near-fields.