On the modeling of periodic structures using the finite-difference time-domain algorithm

In this paper, we present a technique for modeling periodic structures, such as spatial filters and photonic bandgap materials, using the finite-difference time-domain (FDTD) algorithm, for both the normal and oblique incidence cases. A waveguide simulator technique is employed to model these periodic structures, and the issue of arbitrary angles of incidence as well as the problem of sweeping frequency of the illuminating wave, that are difficult to handle in the FDTD waveguide simulator approach, are addressed. Comparisons with results derived using other techniques are presented, and goon agreement is demonstrated. (C) 2000 John Wiley & Sons, Inc.