Optical waveguide channel branches in Ti-diffused LiNbO(3).

Area of Science:

• Optoelectronics
• Materials Science
• Photonics

Background:

• Titanium-indiffused lithium niobate (Ti:LiNbO3) is a key material for integrated optics.
• Waveguide branches are fundamental components in photonic integrated circuits.

Purpose of the Study:

• To experimentally measure splitting ratios in Ti:LiNbO3 channel waveguide branches.
• To investigate the influence of branch angle and asymmetry on splitting ratios.
• To compare experimental data with theoretical predictions.

Main Methods:

• Fabrication of Ti:LiNbO3 channel waveguide branches.
• Measurement of splitting ratios as a function of branch angle and asymmetry.
• Application of the effective index method dispersion theory for parameter calculation.
• Measurement of channel transmission loss and branch transmission for ordinary modes.
• Novel method for measuring prism output coupling efficiency.

Main Results:

• Splitting ratios were successfully measured in Ti:LiNbO3 channel waveguide branches.
• Experimental results showed qualitative agreement with theoretical calculations.
• Transmission loss and branch transmission data were obtained for ordinary modes.
• A new technique for prism output coupling efficiency measurement was demonstrated.

Conclusions:

• The effective index method provides a reasonable theoretical basis for understanding Ti:LiNbO3 waveguide branch behavior.
• Experimental validation confirms the qualitative accuracy of theoretical models.
• The study contributes to the design and optimization of photonic devices.