Key kinematic parameters in a low-loss power splitter written by femtosecond laser micromachining. (13th March 2018)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Peyton, R; Guarepi, V; Videla, F; Torchia, G A
• Is Part Of: Journal of micromechanics and microengineering. Volume 28:Number 5(2018:May)
• Publication Date: 2018-03-13
• Subjects: femtosecond laser writing -- lithium niobate -- coherent coupling; Microelectromechanical systems -- Periodicals; Micromechanics -- Periodicals; 621.38105
• DOI: 10.1088/1361-6439/aaafe8
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 0960-1317

Abstract

Abstract: In this work we design, fabricate and characterize a 1 × 2 Y-branch power splitter based on simplified coherent coupling. This device was constructed by type II waveguide structures inscribed by a direct femtosecond laser writing technique in x-cut lithium niobate crystal. First of all, a theoretical study that links the kinematic and writing fluence of the process is developed, which allows us to establish the design trade-off and justify the best geometry chosen. Then, the design was optimized and tested by using commercial software, resulting in a compact and low-loss photonic circuit. The efficiency of the proposed device is compared with two others: a curved and a straight splitter. Finally, the experimental results were compared with simulations and then a statistical analysis of multiple comparisons was also conducted, obtaining 3.7 dB ± 0.1 dB insertion losses and 4.5% of the unbalanced coupling ratio.