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Low-loss compact-size slotted waveguide polarization rotator and transformer
Ning-Ning Feng1, Rong Sun, Jurgen Michel
1Department of Materials Science and Engineering, Microphotonics Center, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Cambridge, Massachusetts 02139, USA. fengn@mit.edu
Optics Letters
|August 3, 2007
Summary
We developed compact integrated polarization rotators and transformers. These devices efficiently rotate and transform light polarization between different waveguide modes with minimal loss and short lengths.
Area of Science:
- Photonics and Waveguide Technology
- Integrated Optics
- Nanophotonics
Background:
- Integrated photonic devices require efficient manipulation of light polarization.
- Transitioning between different waveguide modes (e.g., strip vs. slotted) presents challenges for polarization control.
- Existing solutions may suffer from significant insertion loss or large footprints.
Purpose of the Study:
- To present novel mode-evolution-based integrated polarization rotators.
- To demonstrate compact devices for polarization transformation between Gaussian-like and non-Gaussian-like waveguide modes.
- To achieve high-performance polarization control with negligible insertion loss.
Main Methods:
- Design and fabrication of integrated devices utilizing mode-evolution principles.
- Employing adiabatic tapers for gradual mode transformation.
- Characterization of polarization rotation and transformation efficiency across different waveguide types.
Main Results:
- Achieved complete polarization rotation and transformation between strip and slotted waveguide modes.
- Devices exhibit a compact size on the order of tens of micrometers.
- Demonstrated negligible insertion loss for the polarization manipulation.
Conclusions:
- Mode-evolution-based adiabatic tapers offer an effective strategy for integrated polarization control.
- The presented compact devices enable efficient polarization manipulation between diverse waveguide modes.
- These integrated polarization rotators and transformers are suitable for advanced photonic integrated circuits.
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