Endlessly single-mode, broadband polarization-maintaining solid-core photonic crystal fiber

Area of Science:

• Photonics
• Optical Fiber Technology

Background:

• Photonic crystal fibers (PCFs) are crucial for advanced optical applications.
• Achieving both polarization-maintaining (PM) properties and broadband single-mode operation in PCFs remains a challenge.

Purpose of the Study:

• To design and demonstrate a novel PCF with a hybrid lattice structure.
• To achieve simultaneously broadband single-mode guidance and enhanced birefringence.

Main Methods:

• Utilized a hybrid triangular air-hole arrangement and a slightly elliptical core.
• Implemented coordinated geometric and cross-optical-mode modulation.
• Conducted experimental characterization of the fiber's performance.

Main Results:

• Demonstrated broadband single-mode operation from 600 to 1600 nm.
• Achieved a group birefringence of 5.6 × 10^-5 at 1550 nm.
• Suppressed polarization mode coupling with an h-parameter below 1.2 × 10^-4 m^-1.

Conclusions:

• The developed PM-PCF effectively combines high polarization-maintaining capability with broadband single-mode performance.
• This fiber presents significant potential for applications in optical communication, high-power lasers, and fiber optic sensing.