Abstract
In this work we demonstrate novel integrated-optics modulators and switches, realized in a glass substrate by femtosecond laser pulses. These devices are based on oscillating microcantilevers, machined by water-assisted laser ablation. Single-mode optical waveguides are laser-inscribed inside the cantilever beam and continue in the substrate beyond the cantilever's tip. By exciting the resonant oscillation of the mechanical structure, coupling between the waveguide segments is varied in time. Operation frequencies are in the range of tens of kilohertz, thus they markedly overcome the response-time limitation of other glass-based modulators, which rely on the thermo-optic effect. These components may be integrated in more complex waveguide circuits or optofluidic lab-on-chips, to provide periodic and high-frequency modulation of the optical signals.
Highlights
IntroductionTelecommunication applications may require operation frequencies in the megahertz or even gigahertz range
Fiber-optic networks and integrated waveguide circuits, dedicated to the most diverse applications, make fundamental use of optical modulators and switches, i.e. components that can dynamically vary the intensity of the optical signal or route it into different paths.Telecommunication applications may require operation frequencies in the megahertz or even gigahertz range
Operation frequencies are in the range of tens of kilohertz, they markedly overcome the response-time limitation of other glass-based modulators, which rely on the thermo-optic effect
Summary
Telecommunication applications may require operation frequencies in the megahertz or even gigahertz range. Such high modulation frequencies can be reached by exploiting the electro-optic effect in nonlinear substrates such as lithium niobate [1], or carrier injection in semiconductors such as silicon [2]. A flourishing field of application of integrated-optic technologies is optical sensing and biochemical analysis on lab-on-chip optofluidic devices [3,4,5]. In these contexts, requirements on the modulation frequency may be less stringent than in telecommunications. The use of nonlinear substrates or semiconductors is not compatible with many applications, in particular in the biophotonics field, due to their high cost, limited transparency, and possible high chemical reactivity and toxicity
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