Latest research progress on methods and technologies for tunable photonic crystals

Tunable photonic crystal plays an important role for the fabrication of optical device. The photonic bandgap of it can be tuned by changing its crystal structural parameters or material dielectric properties. Research and development of the tunable photonic crystals will not only enrich the types of photonic crystal but also provide novel ideas and new methods for the development of optical devices. In the paper, the latest research progress on methods and technologies for tunable photonic crystal was reviewed. The relevant tuning principles were explained. The tunable photonic crystal was reviewed from five aspects including magnetic tuning, mechanical tuning, thermal tuning, electrical tuning and biochemical tuning. The representative examples were listed in detail, and advantages and applications of different tunable means were discussed. In the end, its development trend was predicted. The contents of this paper could provide assistance for the study and research of tunable photonic crystal, especially for the optical devices.