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Published on: August 30, 2012
Optical waveguide mode control by nanoslit-enhanced terahertz field
A Novitsky1, M Zalkovskij, R Malureanu
1DTU Fotonik-Department of Photonics Engineering, Technical University of Denmark, Kgs. Lyngby, Denmark. andrey.novitsky@tut.by
Optics Letters
|October 9, 2012
Summary
This study introduces a method to control optical waveguide modes using terahertz (THz) waves. Optimized overlap and enhanced THz fields enable tunable optical properties for photonic devices.
Area of Science:
- Photonics
- Optoelectronics
- Terahertz Science
Background:
- Optical waveguide modes are fundamental to photonic integrated circuits.
- Control over these modes is crucial for advanced optical functionalities.
- Terahertz (THz) waves offer unique properties for modulating optical signals.
Purpose of the Study:
- To propose and investigate a scheme for controlling optical waveguide modes using THz waves.
- To optimize the interaction between optical modes and THz fields.
- To explore potential applications in optical switching and modulation.
Main Methods:
- Numerical simulations to model the interaction between optical and THz fields.
- Optimization of waveguide geometry and metallic nanoslit placement.
- Analysis of optical mode attenuation and nonlinear refractive index changes.
Main Results:
- An optimized overlap between optical modes and enhanced THz fields was achieved.
- A balance was found between optical loss and THz-induced refractive index change.
- A 10 kV/cm THz field was shown to induce a 0.001 nonlinear refractive index change, sufficient for a π/2 phase shift.
Conclusions:
- The proposed scheme offers effective control of optical waveguide modes via THz waves.
- Experimental observation of the effect is deemed feasible.
- The method has potential applications in tunable optical devices like Mach-Zehnder interferometers.
