Reversible Single-Pulse Laser-Induced Phase Change of Sb_2S_3 Thin Films: Multi-Physics Modeling and Experimental Demonstrations

Phase change materials (PCMs) have gained a tremendous interest as a means to actively tune nanophotonic devices through the large optical modulation produced by their amorphous to crystalline reversible transition. Recently, materials such as Sb2S3 emerged as particularly promising low loss PCMs, with both large refractive index modulations and transparency in the visible and near-infrared. Controlling the local and reversible phase transition in this material is of major importance for future applications, and an appealing method to do so is to exploit pulsed lasers. Yet, the physics and limits involved in the optical switching of Sb2S3 are not yet well understood. Here, the reversible laser-induced phase transition of Sb2S3 is investigated, focusing specifically on the mechanisms that drive the optically induced amorphization, with multi-physics considerations including the optical and thermal properties of the PCM and its environment. The laser energy threshold for reversibly changing the phase of the PCM is determined through both theoretical analysis and experimental investigation, not only between fully amorphous and crystalline states but also between partially recrystallized states. Then, the non-negligible impact of the material's polycrystallinity and anisotropy on the power thresholds for optical switching is revealed. Finally, the challenges related to laser amorphization of thick Sb2S3 layers are addressed, as well as strategies to overcome them. These results enable a qualitative and quantitative understanding of the physics behind the optically-induced reversible change of phase in Sb2S3 layers.