(YIP) VISIBLE KERR-MICRORESONATOR FREQUENCY COMBS- EXTENDING MICROCOMBS TO SHORTER WAVELENGTHS USING REFRACTORY METAL OXIDES
Abstract
I propose a comprehensive program of research to create broadband Kerr-microresonator-based optical frequency combs operating at visible wavelengths. Kerr-microresonator frequency combs are an exciting new technology in which optical frequency combs, revolutionary tools for precision measurements, are formed in micro-scale dielectric resonators. These resonators can be lithographically patterned on silicon wafers and subsequently integrated with other CMOS-compatible components, enabling comb-based measurements far from the research lab. While telecom-wavelength Kerr-microresonator comb technology is established, visible analogs are still in their infancy. Currently, visible Kerr-comb research is hindered by unfavorable material optical properties, as well as a lack of systematic data on materials and fabrication processes to guide the design of visible devices. I plan to overcome these challenges through a systematic study of microresonators based on thin films of refractory metal oxides. Refractory metal oxides (RMOs) are a promising class of materials with significant advantages for nonlinear light generation at visible wavelengths. My group will perform design, fabrication, and characterization of RMO microring resonators, paying particular attention to fabrication details that can enhance the material and waveguide properties critical for comb generation. We will employ dispersion engineering to further alter device properties and shape the comb’s spectral envelope, enabling generation of broad bandwidth, phase-coherent soliton comb states. My research strategy emphasizes building fundamental understanding of nonlinear nanophotonics at visible wavelengths by establishing process-structure-property relationships. As such, I aim to expand basic knowledge and predictive capabilities for the design of nonlinear nanophotonic devices. Not only will this research guide future development of visible Kerr-comb technologies, it will provide critical foundational knowledge for nonlinear visible-light generation in multiple next-generation photonic platforms. This research will represent an important and timely advance for the field of visible integrated photonics.
Document Details
- Document Type
- DoD Grant Award
- Publication Date
- Mar 07, 2023
- Source ID
- FA95502210174
Entities
People
- Tara E. Drake
Organizations
- Air Force Office of Scientific Research
- United States Air Force
- University of New Mexico