Quantum interference between two orthogonal transitions of an atom in one-dimensional photonic crystals

We find that the V-type three-level Zeeman atom has the complete quantum interference when it is embedded in one-dimensional photonic crystals (1D PCs) possessing the TM-polarized complete gap. To avoid the nonradiative decay related to dissipation and the decay through surface exciton, we add two phase compensators made of ideal left-handed materials on two sides of atom, and then the total structure is equivalent to a 1D PC supporting only the radiative modes. The parameter regions (epsilon, mu) leading to the TM-polarized complete gap have been sketched out, and the influence of absorption on the quantum interference is discussed. (c) 2008 Optical Society of America.