Optimal photonic crystal slabs for modulators based on transitions between photonic bands

Abstract

The real part of refractive index is important for the phase shift of light propagating in a dielectric medium. Modulation of the refractive index can be used for electro-optic modulators based on Mach–Zehnder interferometer. In this study we simulate Si-based 2D photonic crystal slabs and by comparing the performance of different lattice types and structure of holes, in respect to the value of effective refractive index change when modulating the refractive index of Si, we find the most promising structures for Si photonics electro-optic modulators based on transition between photonic bands.