# Cross-interface polaritons with mixed dimensions and reduced symmetry

> **NSF 01002526DB NSF RESEARCH & RELATED ACTIVIT** · Auburn University (AL) · $600,000

## Abstract

Nontechnical Description:
This project will advance the understanding of nano-polaritons—waves that combine light and matter and travel within nanoscale materials. These waves can be used to control energy and information at extremely small scales, offering potential for faster optical computing, more efficient energy use, and advanced sensing technologies. The research team will explore how these waves behave when moving across materials of different shapes and sizes. These new setups for nano-polaritons could lead to more efficient ways to send and control information and energy at the nanoscale. The research will also support hands-on education and outreach for the general public on state-of-the-art optics and materials research. In addition, the project will integrate the research products into university coursework and involve K-12 participants in summer activities. Undergraduate students will receive comprehensive training in nanomaterial fabrication and optical simulations, helping prepare the next generation of researchers in optics, materials science, and engineering.

Technical Description:
This project will investigate cross-interface polariton nano-light in heterostructures formed by mixed-dimensional and reduced-symmetry materials. By breaking the traditional symmetric behaviors of polaritons, the research will enable the discovery of unconventional light-matter interactions and propagating nano-optical modes over quantum-confined nanostructures. The principa

## Key facts

- **NSF award ID:** 2525882
- **Awardee organization:** Auburn University (AL)
- **SAM.gov UEI:** DMQNDJDHTDG4
- **PI:** Siyuan Dai
- **Primary program:** 01002526DB NSF RESEARCH & RELATED ACTIVIT
- **All programs:** QUANTUM INFORMATION SCIENCE, NANO NON-SOLIC SCI & ENG AWD, Nanomaterials, Optics and Photonics, EXP PROG TO STIM COMP RES
- **Estimated total:** $600,000
- **Funds obligated:** $600,000
- **Transaction type:** Standard Grant
- **Period:** 09/15/2025 → 08/31/2028

## Primary source

NSF Award Search: https://www.nsf.gov/awardsearch/showAward?AWD_ID=2525882

## Citation

> US National Science Foundation, Award 2525882, Cross-interface polaritons with mixed dimensions and reduced symmetry. Retrieved via AI Analytics 2026-06-06 from https://api.ai-analytics.org/grant/nsf/2525882. Licensed CC0.

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