Multi-functional, tunable microfluidic optical fiber devices

Abstract

By introducing microfluidic plugs into interior fiber microchannels, we have developed a new category of active, tunable optical fiber. The positions and optical properties of the fluidic plugs can be directly controlled by utilizing actuators and pumps located on the fiber surface, thereby allowing the propagation characteristics of certain optical fiber modes to be usefully adjusted. These hybrid microfluidic/silica waveguides preserve the advantages of conventional, passive optical fiber, while at the same time providing versatile tuning capabilities. Examples of variable narrow and broadband all-fiber filters are described here. These fluidic fiber devices have the potential to be important technologies for next generation optical networks.