Two-mode multiplexer and demultiplexer based on adiabatic couplers

Area of Science:

• Photonics and Optical Engineering
• Integrated Optics
• Waveguide Devices

Background:

• Efficient mode (de)multiplexing is crucial for increasing data capacity in optical communication networks.
• Adiabatic couplers offer a promising approach for mode manipulation due to their inherent low loss and broadband operation.
• Existing devices often face challenges with crosstalk, insertion loss, and fabrication tolerances.

Purpose of the Study:

• To propose and experimentally demonstrate a novel two-mode (de)multiplexer utilizing adiabatic couplers.
• To evaluate the device's performance in terms of mode crosstalk, insertion loss, and operational bandwidth.
• To assess the design's tolerance to fabrication variations and identify avenues for future improvement.

Main Methods:

• Design of a two-mode (de)multiplexer based on adiabatic coupling principles.
• Experimental fabrication and characterization of the proposed device.
• Optical performance measurements including insertion loss, mode crosstalk, and spectral response.

Main Results:

• Experimental results closely match simulation predictions.
• Achieved ultralow mode crosstalk below -36 dB.
• Measured low insertion loss of approximately 0.3 dB over a broad bandwidth (1500-1600 nm).

Conclusions:

• The demonstrated adiabatic coupler-based two-mode (de)multiplexer offers superior performance.
• The device exhibits excellent crosstalk and low insertion loss, suitable for advanced optical systems.
• The design's fabrication tolerance suggests potential for practical implementation and further optimization.