Geometry symmetry-free and Higher-order Optical Bound States in the Continuum

Abstract Geometrical symmetry plays a significant role in realizing robust, symmetry-protected, bound states in the continuum (BICs). However, this benefit is only theoretical in many cases since the unavoidable imperfections of fabricated samples may easily break the stringent geometrical requirements. Here we propose an essentially new approach by introducing the concept of geometrical-symmetry-free but symmetry-protected BICs, realized using the static-like environment induced by a zero-index metamaterial (ZIM). We find that robust BICs exist and are protected from the disordered distribution of multiple objects inside ZIM host by its physical symmetries rather than geometrical ones. We further show theoretically and numerically that the existence of those higher-order BICs depends only on the number of objects. By practically designing a structural ZIM waveguide, the existence of BICs is numerically confirmed, as well as their independence on the presence of geometrical symmetry. Our findings provide a new way of realizing higher-order BICs and link their properties to disorder of photonic systems.