Femtosecond laser direct writing of optical devices in bulk glasses [Martin Ams]
About the project
Direct writing of photonic devices into bulk glasses using ultrafast lasers is developing into an active field of research. The means by which functioning devices are induced into these materials fall into 2 categories, namely, those where materials has been removed and those where the refractive index of the material has been modified . It is those falling into the latter category that form the focus of this project.
The mechanisms by which the refractive index is modified is still the source of much debate among researchers. The commonly accepted explanation is that energy deposition into the matrix via non-linear or multiphoton absorption leads to melting. It has been proposed that densification results when the molten material resolidifies. Similarly, densification is commonly attributed with inducing refractive index changes in fibre Bragg gratings upon exposure to UV light although the mechanisms producing this are very different.
Single mode, low loss waveguides and waveguide couplers have been successfully written directly into fused silica using focused femtosecond laser radiation. Advanced beam handling techniques and geometries under development will optimise the optical properties of these waveguides to enable the development of miniature waveguide amplifiers and oscillators inside rare earth doped glasses.
Read more about Martin's research here.
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Femtosecond laser scribes
on surface of glass illuminated by HeNe laser |
Martin Ams presenting at the 2003 CUDOS workshop at
ANU |
Ultimate Goal: An all Optical Integrated Device |
Publications