Related Experiment Video
Updated: Jun 22, 2026

Microwave Photonics Systems Based on Whispering-gallery-mode Resonators
Published on: August 5, 2013
Generalized formulation for performance degradations due to bending and edge scattering loss in microdisk resonators
John E Heebner1, Tiziana C Bond, Jeff S Kallman
1Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory, 7000 East Ave., Livermore, CA 94550, USA. heebner1@llnl.gov
Abstract:
We present a generalized formulation for the treatment of both bending (whispering gallery) loss and scattering loss due to edge roughness in microdisk resonators. The results are applicable to microrings and related geometries. For thin disks with radii greater than the bend-loss limit, we find that the finesse limited by the scattering losses induced by edge roughness is independent of radii. While a strong lateral refractive index contrast is necessary to prevent bending losses, unless the radii are of the order of a few microns, lateral air-cladding is detrimental and only enhances scattering losses. The generalized formulation provides a framework for selecting the refractive index contrast that optimizes the finesse at a given radius.
Related Concept Videos
Deformations in a Transverse Cross Section
As the material stretches, it expands or contracts in orthogonal directions to the load. This phenomenon varies...
Relation between Poisson's ratio, Modulus of Elasticity and Modulus of Rigidity
Deformations in a Symmetric Member in Bending
When the member is segmented into tiny cubic elements, it is observed that the primary stress...
Residual Stresses in Bending
Plastic Deformation in Circular Shafts
Deformation in a Circular Shaft

