Single-beam Mach–Zehnder micro-interferometer based on magnetic fluids

Abstract

The single-beam Mach–Zehnder micro-interferometers are proposed. Magnetic fluid is utilized to constitute the interferometers. Due to the tunable refractive index of magnetic fluid under external magnetic field, the interference intensity of the Mach–Zehnder interferometer can be adjusted by the magnetic field. Through turning on and turning off the magnetic field alternatively, the repeatability and tunability of the micro-interferometer are verified. The results in this work can be employed to design unique optical devices based on magnetic fluids, such as optical modulator, optical switches.