Modeling, Fabrication, and Characterization of Optically-Resonant Periodic Electrode Structures
Abstract
This thesis presents an effort to model, fabricate, and characterize optically-resonant periodic electrode (ORPEL) structures. The interconnect between electronic components is a major problem that is hindering further improvements in modern communication systems. The realization of low-cost wavelength- selective detectors and wavelength- selective optical switches/modulators would be a major step toward a solution to this problem. Clearly, any "all-optical" technology will likely need some form of electronic control mechanism. An ORPEL structure is an interdigitated array of metal fingers, with its period chosen to satisfy specific resonances. The use of silicon on insulator (SOI) waveguides with an ORPEL overlay was studied as a "building block" structure for resonant interactions in the lambda = 820 nm, lambda = 1064 nm, and lambda = 1550 nm wavelength ranges. These structures can play the role of detectors, optoelectronic modulators, or optical switches. Structures were initially modeled by first-order methods to provide a maximum off-resonance reflectance. Initial designs were analyzed by rigorous coupled-wave methods, while structure parameters were varied in order to minimize a pre-determined merit function. While undergoing optimization, the grating period of the structure was adjusted in order to return the resonance wavelength back to design. Experimental results for both lambda = 1064 nm and lambda = 1550 nm structures verified that modeling and optimization closely matched experiment for the highest quality material. We have concluded that, given a quality waveguide to build upon, it is possible to design and construct an optically-resonant structure that satisfies a particular target wavelength.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Jan 01, 1998
- Accession Number
- ADA349017
Entities
People
- Robert P. Fabrizzio
Organizations
- University of Rochester