Thermal emission and design in one-dimensional periodic metallic photonic crystal slabs.

We present a useful framework within which we can understand some of the physical phenomena that drive thermal emission in one-dimensional periodic metallic photonic crystals, emphasizing phenomenology and physical intuition. We perform detailed numerical calculations for these systems and find that polarization and periodicity play key roles in determining the types of physical phenomena that can arise. Two promising structures are identified as good candidates for thermal design. We conclude with a discussion of how the emissive properties of these systems can be tailored to our needs.