Supermode Si/III-V hybrid lasers, optical amplifiers and modulators: A proposal and analysis

Area of Science:

• Optoelectronics
• Materials Science
• Photonics

Background:

• Hybrid optoelectronic devices integrate dissimilar materials for enhanced functionality.
• Waveguide-based lasers offer compact and efficient light sources.
• Silicon photonics enables large-scale integration of optical circuits.

Purpose of the Study:

• To present a novel hybrid laser structure combining III-V and silicon waveguides.
• To demonstrate control over optical power confinement within the hybrid structure.
• To achieve efficient light amplification and optimized output coupling.

Main Methods:

• Fabrication of a hybrid laser structure with proximity-coupled III-V and silicon waveguides.
• Operation near the synchronism point for controlled phase velocity matching.
• Manipulation of waveguide geometry to control optical mode confinement.

Main Results:

• Achieved near-maximal optical gain by confining the mode to the III-V waveguide.
• Optimized output coupling by confining the mode to the silicon waveguide near the output.
• Demonstrated a novel approach to gain realization, distinct from evanescent field penetration.

Conclusions:

• The hybrid laser structure enables efficient light amplification and tailored output coupling.
• Control over optical power confinement is key to optimizing performance.
• This design offers a promising platform for integrated optoelectronic devices.