Three-dimensional woodpile photonic crystal templates for the infrared spectral range.

High-quality templates of three-dimensional woodpile photonic crystals are fabricated in photoresist SU-8 by use of femtosecond laser lithography. The samples have smooth surfaces, are mechanically stable, and are resistant to degradation under environmental and chemical influences. Fundamental and higher-order photonic stopgaps are identified in the wavelength range 2.0-8.0 microm. These templates can be used for subsequent infiltration by optically active or high-refractive-index materials.