Ultrashort Pulse Inscription of Photonic Structures in ZnSe and GaAs for Mid Infrared Applications
Abstract
This report results from a contract tasking Heriot-Watt University as follows: B. TECHNICAL PROPOSAL/DESCRIPTION OF WORK: Military electro-optic sources must be highly reliable in harsh environmental conditions. Waveguide structures provide insensitivity to vibration as well as changes in temperature and pressure. Waveguide devices can also be compact and low cost. Dr K. Schepler at the AFRL Sensors Directorate has great interest in developing robust infrared laser sources using waveguide structures. During a TTCP visit to Herriot- Watt University, we discussed a potential collaboration to develop infrared waveguide structures. This proposal has been developed in consultation with Dr Schepler. Since the discovery in 1996 that focussed ultrashort pulse laser radiation can modify material refractive index [1], significant research effort has been directed to using ultrashort laser pulses to fabricate integrated optical devices. Waveguides can be fabricated by translating a bulk sample through the focus, effectively writing the optical circuit. This direct-write approach has inherent benefits over conventional fabrication techniques. It does not require expensive clean room facilities, or complex and messy film deposition and etching processes. It also has the capability to fabricate three-dimensional structures, a facility unachievable using conventional techniques. There is also an unprecedented material design freedom with the technique suited to virtually any material transparent to the writing laser. This is a rapid prototyping technique that can allow the development of novel device designs.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Aug 01, 2010
- Accession Number
- ADA536330
Entities
People
- Ajoy K. Kar
Organizations
- Heriot-Watt University