Two-dimensional colloidal crystal corrugated waveguides.

We demonstrate, for what is to our knowledge the first time, two-dimensional (2D) corrugated waveguides at optical wavelengths obtained by use of 2D colloidal crystals. We report experimental studies of light coupling into and out of the waveguide structure. The diffracted light shows interesting optical properties that exist only in such 2D grating structures. Field distribution of the fundamental mode in the structure is studied by use of a simplified model in our analysis. Potential applications of this type of structure are discussed.