Abstract: A layer including a topological insulator, the layer including: an arrangement of a plurality of patterns on a surface of the layer, each pattern of the plurality of patterns including at least a non-straight elongated portion. An electronic device including the layer including a topological insulator, and further including first and second electrodes on the layer. Further, the first and second electrodes may be configured to provide electrical connection to the layer. A method of controlling spin transport in the layer includes a topological insulator, the method including: applying circularly polarized light on the layer; and driving an electronic component with a photocurrent produced in the layer by the circularly polarized light.

Abstract: A method and a device are disclosed for changing the color of a metal surface in a given part of the electromagnetic spectrum. It is achieved by creating a surface relief as an array of raised or indented repeated elements without breaking the continuity of the metal surface. The characteristic size of the elements is smaller than the shortest wavelength in that part of spectrum. In particular, the method uses excitation of surface plasmons on the metal surface. The relief may be optionally covered by a layer of dielectric or semiconductor for further fixed or externally controlled change of the metal surface color. The device may be used to detect the intensity or color or phase of incident light. It may be used to detect another substance in proximity of the surface by changing the color or phase or intensity of reflected light.

Abstract: This invention relates to use of metamaterials for creating spectral selectors of electromagnetic radiation. Planar metamaterial films patterned on the sub-wavelength scale can be used in polarization filters instead of natural and synthesized bulk crystals. Characteristics and the quality factor of metamaterial filters is controlled by the geometry of the pattern. Various types of metamaterials and filter configurations are proposed.