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Nanomechanical Optical Fiber with Embedded Electrodes Actuated by Joule Heating
Zhenggang Lian1, Martha Segura2, Nina Podoliak3
1Optoelectronics Research Centre, University of Southampton, Southampton SO17 1BJ, UK. lianzhenggang@gmail.com.
Materials (Basel, Switzerland)
|August 10, 2017
Summary
Researchers created a novel nanomechanical optical fiber, enabling all-fiber microelectromechanical systems (MEMS). Electrically controlled light switching was achieved using minimal power, demonstrating a new pathway for integrated photonic devices.
Area of Science:
- Photonics and Materials Science
- Microelectromechanical Systems (MEMS)
Background:
- Optical fibers are crucial for data transmission.
- Developing integrated, switchable fiber optic components is a key challenge.
Purpose of the Study:
- To fabricate and demonstrate an electrically actuated, all-fiber microelectromechanical system (MEMS).
- To investigate optical switching in a nanomechanical optical fiber using Joule heating.
Main Methods:
- Fabrication of nanomechanical optical fibers using a multi-material co-draw technique with embedded metal electrodes.
- Demonstration of optical switching by Joule heating the electrodes.
- Utilizing a directional coupler formed by two suspended glass cores within the fiber.
Main Results:
- Successful optical switching between fiber cores was achieved with low electrical power (0.4 W).
- The device functions as an electrically actuated all-fiber MEMS.
- Simulations identified transverse thermal expansion as the primary switching mechanism.
Conclusions:
- The developed nanomechanical optical fiber enables electrically controlled all-fiber optical switching.
- This technology presents a viable platform for integrated fiber optic MEMS.
- Transverse thermal expansion is the key physical principle driving the optical switching in this device.
