Optimized ARROW-Based MMI Waveguides for High Fidelity Excitation Patterns for Optofluidic Multiplexing

Area of Science:

• Optics and Photonics
• Biomedical Engineering
• Materials Science

Background:

• Multimode interference (MMI) waveguides enable optical signal multiplexing and de-multiplexing.
• High-fidelity, wavelength-dependent spot patterns are crucial for multiplexed fluorescence optofluidic biosensors.
• Accurate identification of multiple targets requires precise optical signal manipulation.

Purpose of the Study:

• To explore design parameters for MMI rib anti-resonant reflecting optical waveguides (ARROWs).
• To achieve high-fidelity spot patterns for biomarker excitation in optofluidic biosensors.
• To optimize waveguide geometry for enhanced optical throughput and mode matching.

Main Methods:

• Experimental fabrication and characterization of MMI rib ARROW waveguides.
• Optical simulations to analyze waveguide performance and spot pattern generation.
• Systematic investigation of waveguide width and etch depth parameters.

Main Results:

• Identified critical design parameters, including excitation waveguide width and etch depth.
• Demonstrated the impact of these parameters on input optical mode size and output spot fidelity.
• Showcased the effectiveness of waveguide tapers for improving optical throughput via mode matching.

Conclusions:

• Optimized MMI rib ARROW waveguide designs produce high-fidelity spot patterns.
• Precise control over waveguide geometry is essential for sensitive multiplexed biosensing.
• The findings facilitate the development of advanced optofluidic biosensor platforms.