Rib channel chirowaveguides: A simple way to free the integrated photonics from linear polarizations monopoly
Abstract
One fundamental law in integrated photonics (IP) is the decomposition of the guided optical waves into two independent linearly transverse polarization modes: the TE and TM modes. Because of the planar symmetry of on chip devices that induces linear birefringence (LB) in these systems, the use of IP is limited to the area where the relevant polarization modes are the linear ones. Using hybrid organic-inorganic chiral material with high circular biregringence (CB), we susscefuly achived channel sol-gel chirowaveguides via a simple imprint technique. By varying the channel chirowaveguides geometry and consequently, balancing LB and CB, elliptical birefringence could be tuned and eigenmode polarization from linear to nearly circular could be propagated in these unique waveguides. Our study unravels a new way of polarization control in IP, providing a route towards the design of versatile optical chirowaveguides in which light can propagate through eigenmodes with a polarization other than linear.
Domains
Optics [physics.optics]Origin | Files produced by the author(s) |
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