Optimization of Y-splitting antiresonant reflecting optical waveguides-based rib waveguides

Area of Science:

• Optoelectronics
• Materials Science
• Photonics

Background:

• Antiresonant reflecting optical waveguides (AROWs) are crucial for integrated photonic circuits.
• Power splitters are fundamental components in optical networks, directing light signals.
• Optimizing splitter performance involves minimizing insertion loss and managing physical dimensions.

Purpose of the Study:

• To experimentally characterize AROW power splitters for various split angles around 635 nm.
• To validate theoretical predictions and simulations regarding transmission losses.
• To investigate the impact of fabrication nonidealities on splitter performance and design.

Main Methods:

• Fabrication of AROW power splitters in SiO2 films on silicon substrates.
• Experimental characterization of transmission losses for split angles from 0.5 to 9 degrees.
• Comparison of experimental results with theoretical models and simulations.

Main Results:

• Lowest transmission losses were experimentally confirmed at the lowest split angles (0.5-9 degrees).
• SiO2 films on silicon substrates were successfully used to build functional power splitters.
• Fabrication nonidealities were observed to influence the achievable splitting angle.

Conclusions:

• Experimental data supports theoretical predictions of lower loss for smaller split angles in AROW power splitters.
• The study highlights the critical trade-off between optical loss and device length in Y-splitter design.
• Findings provide valuable insights for the fabrication and design of efficient optical waveguide power splitters.