Electro-optic polymer spatial light modulator based on a Fabry-Perot interferometer configuration

Area of Science:

• Optoelectronics
• Nonlinear Optics
• Materials Science

Background:

• Spatial Light Modulators (SLMs) are crucial for optical information processing.
• Existing SLM technologies (e.g., liquid crystal, digital micromirror devices) have limitations in speed and integration.
• Electro-optic polymers offer potential for high-speed optical modulation.

Purpose of the Study:

• To fabricate and test a novel spatial light modulator (SLM) utilizing a Fabry-Perot interferometer configuration.
• To investigate the performance of an electro-optic polymer as the nonlinear medium in the SLM.
• To demonstrate high-speed, multi-pixel modulation capabilities.

Main Methods:

• Fabrication of a Fabry-Perot interferometer with an SEO100 electro-optic polymer spacer layer.
• Testing of the SLM's modulation performance, including pixel operation and frequency response.
• Measurement of modulation contrast and drive voltage requirements.

Main Results:

• Demonstrated simultaneous modulation of multiple pixels at frequencies from 300 kHz to 800 kHz.
• Achieved an average modulation contrast of 50% with a 70 V(rms) drive voltage at 100 kHz.
• Observed modulation speeds significantly faster than current liquid crystal and digital micromirror device technologies.

Conclusions:

• The Fabry-Perot based SLM with an electro-optic polymer shows promise for high-speed optical modulation.
• The device performance indicates feasibility for microwave speeds and CMOS compatibility with further design optimization.
• This technology represents a significant advancement over existing SLM solutions.