Efficient mode conversion in an optical nanoantenna mediated by quantum emitters

Converting signals at low intensities between different electromagnetic modes is an asset for future information technologies. In general, slightly asymmetric optical nanoantennas enable the coupling between bright and dark modes that they sustain. However, the conversion efficiency might be very low. Here, we show that the additional incorporation of a quantum emitter allows us to tremendously enhance this efficiency. The enhanced local density of states cycles the quantum emitter between its upper and lower level at an extremely high rate, hence converting the energy very efficiently. The process is robust with respect to possible experimental tolerances, and adds a new ingredient to be exploited while studying and applying coupling phenomena in optical nanosystems. (C) 2016 Optical Society of America