Geometrically distributed one-dimensional photonic crystals for light-reflection in all angles

We demonstrate that a series of one-dimensional photonic crystals made of any dielectric materials, with the periods are distributed in a geometrical progression of a common ratio, r < r(c) (theta,P), where rc is a structural parameter that depends on the angle of incidence, theta, and polarization, P, is capable of blocking light of any spectral range. If an omni-directional reflection is desired for all polarizations and for all incident angles smaller than theta(o), then r < r(c) (theta(o),p), where p is the polarization with the electric field parallel to the plane of incidence. We present simple and formula like expressions for r(c), width of the bandgap, and minimum number of photonic crystals to achieve a perfect light reflection. (c) 2009 Optical Society of America