We demonstrate that the resonance of metallic split-ring resonators can interact with Bragg phase interference effects in a surrounding one-dimensional photonic crystal in such a way that a zero-bandwidth mode arises within the photonic band gap of the crystal. The band can also be designed to exhibit forward or backward slow-light propagation. We present a very simple model to explain these phenomena and verify the results with numerical simulations. The dynamic tuning of the structure has potential for stopping light or time-reversal applications.

• Received 31 March 2010

DOI:https://doi.org/10.1103/PhysRevB.81.233101