Ultrafast-laser-inscribed multiscan type-I mid-infrared waveguides and beamsplitters in IG2

Area of Science:

• Materials Science
• Photonics
• Optical Engineering

Background:

• Chalcogenide glasses are promising materials for mid-infrared (MIR) applications.
• Ultrafast laser inscription (ULI) offers precise modification of glass properties.

Purpose of the Study:

• To fabricate and characterize MIR waveguides and beamsplitters in IG2 glass using ULI.
• To investigate the influence of ULI parameters on waveguide performance.
• To explore different beamsplitter configurations for MIR photonics.

Main Methods:

• Fabrication of waveguides and beamsplitters in IG2 glass using ULI.
• Characterization of optical properties at 4.55 µm.
• Investigation of weak and strong ULI modification regimes.
• Optimization of geometric and inscription parameters.

Main Results:

• Two ULI regimes (weak and strong) identified with distinct waveguide morphologies and loss characteristics.
• Efficient light guiding at 4.55 µm demonstrated.
• Enhanced mode confinement and reduced propagation loss in the weak regime.
• Fabricated 1x2 to 1x8 beamsplitters with >96% uniform splitting ratio and 0.4 dB loss at 4.55 µm.

Conclusions:

• ULI is a viable technique for creating MIR waveguides and beamsplitters in IG2 glass.
• The study provides insights into optimizing ULI parameters for specific photonic applications.
• Developed IG2-based components show significant potential for MIR photonic integrated circuits.