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High index contrast polymer waveguide platform for integrated biophotonics.
Jennifer Halldorsson1, Nina B Arnfinnsdottir, Asta B Jonsdottir
1Department of Physics, Science Institute, University of Iceland, Dunhagi 3,IS-107 Reykjavik, Iceland.
Optics Express
|August 20, 2010
Summary
We developed a novel polymer waveguide for biophotonics, ideal for sensing applications due to its water-matched cladding. This biocompatible platform enables high-functionality integrated devices for mass production.
Area of Science:
- Integrated Optics
- Polymer Photonics
- Biophotonics
Background:
- High-index-contrast waveguides are crucial for miniaturized optical circuits.
- Matching cladding refractive index to water is essential for biosensing applications.
Purpose of the Study:
- To characterize a novel high-index-contrast integrated optical polymer waveguide platform.
- To demonstrate its applicability for biophotonic sensing and integrated functionalities.
Main Methods:
- Fabrication of single-mode waveguides operating across the visible spectrum.
- Modeling of waveguide properties (mode size, bend loss, evanescent coupling) using effective-index approximation, finite-element, and finite-difference time-domain methods.
- Modeling, fabrication, and characterization of integrated components like directional couplers and ring resonators.
Main Results:
- Detailed characterization of the polymer waveguide platform with water-matched cladding.
- Demonstration of integrated components for wavelength splitting and refractive-index/temperature sensing.
- Confirmation of biocompatibility and suitability for wafer-level mass production.
Conclusions:
- The developed waveguide platform offers high integration and functionality for biophotonic applications.
- Its unique properties, including water-matched cladding, make it ideal for evanescent-wave sensing.
- The technology is biocompatible and scalable for mass production.
