Advanced Processing of Nonlinear Optical Materials to Lower Pigtailing Cost, Reduce Optical Loss, and Reduce Drive Voltages in Devices.
Abstract
The feasibility investigation of advanced photoprocessing using multicolor lithography with NLO polymers is presented. Photoprocessing has previously been demonstrated using ultraviolet bleaching of NLO polymer films to define waveguides and gratings. This processing approach presented in this report is the first investigation of using the wavelength dependence of photoprocessing to control refractive index gradients in NLO polymer films. This approach makes possible for the first time the 3-dimensional control of refractive index gradients within NLO polymer films to fabricate advanced waveguide structures such as buried waveguides and vertical tapers. This fabrication method offers unique potential for low optical losses by substituting optically defined graded index boundaries for mechanically created boundaries in channel waveguides. This processing approach also offers great simplicity in fabrication to boost productivity and lower fabrication cost. Most importantly, multicolor lithography of NLO polymers can provide a unique route to achieving NLO polymer devices having low insertion losses and low drive voltages through 3-D waveguide fabrications made possible by this approach.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Apr 12, 1996
- Accession Number
- ADA307659
Entities
People
- Robert V. Mustacich