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Compact and high extinction ratio polarization beam splitter using subwavelength grating couplers
Optics Letters
|February 13, 2016
Summary
This study introduces a compact polarization beam splitter utilizing subwavelength grating (SWG) couplers. The device achieves high extinction ratios and low losses for efficient light manipulation in integrated optics.
Area of Science:
- Photonics and Optical Engineering
- Integrated Optics
- Nanophotonics
Background:
- Polarization beam splitters are essential components in optical systems.
- Subwavelength gratings (SWGs) offer unique optical properties for device miniaturization.
Purpose of the Study:
- To propose and characterize a compact polarization beam splitter (PBS) using SWG couplers.
- To achieve high extinction ratios and low insertion/reflection losses for both TE and TM modes.
Main Methods:
- Design and simulation of a PBS incorporating SWG-based transitions and tapered waveguides.
- Characterization of optical performance, including insertion loss, extinction ratio, and reflection loss at 1.55 μm.
- Analysis of fabrication tolerances and mode-field evolution.
Main Results:
- A compact PBS with a total length of 6.8 μm was achieved.
- Extinction ratios of 32.19 dB for TE and 20.93 dB for TM modes were obtained.
- A wide operational bandwidth of ~81 nm for an extinction ratio greater than 18 dB was demonstrated.
Conclusions:
- The proposed SWG coupler-based PBS offers excellent performance in a compact footprint.
- The device shows potential for applications in integrated photonic circuits requiring efficient polarization control.
- The design exhibits robustness to fabrication variations and provides insights into mode behavior.
