TY - JOUR AU - Wuttig, M. AU - Bhaskaran, H. AU - Taubner, T. TI - Phase-change materials for non-volatile photonic applications JO - Nature photonics VL - 11 IS - 8 SN - 1749-4893 CY - London [u.a.] PB - Nature Publ. Group M1 - FZJ-2019-06541 SP - 465 - 476 PY - 2017 AB - Phase-change materials (PCMs) provide a unique combination of properties. On transformation from the amorphous to crystalline state, their optical properties change drastically. Short optical or electrical pulses can be utilized to switch between these states, making PCMs attractive for photonic applications. We review recent developments in PCMs and evaluate the potential for all-photonic memories. Towards this goal, the progress and existing challenges to realize waveguides with stepwise adjustable transmission are presented. Colour-rendering and nanopixel displays form another interesting application. Finally, nanophotonic applications based on plasmonic nanostructures are introduced. They provide reconfigurable, non-volatile functionality enabling manipulation and control of light. Requirements and perspectives to successfully implement PCMs in emerging areas of photonics are discussed. LB - PUB:(DE-HGF)16 UR - <Go to ISI:>//WOS:000406692600011 DO - DOI:10.1038/nphoton.2017.126 UR - https://juser.fz-juelich.de/record/867948 ER -