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Optical force density in waveguides with broken symmetry

Farhan I. Zahin, Tasin Intisar, Li-Fan Yang, and Kevin J. Webb*

  • *Contact author: webb@purdue.edu
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Phys. Rev. A 113, 043521 – Published 23 April, 2026

DOI: https://doi.org/10.1103/p47v-wpf9

Abstract

We investigate the optical force and torque density in relation to the symmetry of dielectric waveguides and reveal a net transverse bulk force associated with eigenmode asymmetry. An estimate of this force under readily realizable conditions indicates that the effect is testable with commonly available equipment. Upon experimental verification, force regulation based on asymmetry could provide a foundation for the optomechanical control of waveguide systems, thereby impacting various optical device technologies, including switches, couplers, and isolators, which would be useful in integrated optical systems.

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Phys. Rev. A 113, 043521– Published 23 April, 2026
  • Received 7 October 2025
  • Accepted 19 March 2026
Article part of CHORUS
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