Planar Optical Materials

1. Planar waveguide devices for WDM applications

In this project we are seeking to create new components for multi-wavelength telecom transmission systems which will use the inherent multiplex advantages of the planar geometry for high level integration. The work will involve fabrication, grating writing, optical experiments and design.

2. Development of periodically poled nonlinear optical materials for efficient frequency conversion into the visible and mid-infrared

The aims of the project are to build on the existing, highly successful work on periodic poling of ferroelectric materials at the ORC. This is a technique for micro‑structuring nonlinear material to give excellent nonlinear properties. The project involves fabrication, testing and optical experiments.

3. Contact-bonded waveguides for lasers and non-linear optics

Recent work at the ORC has shown that the contact-bonding of two materials, followed by precision polishing, is a versatile method of making low-loss planar waveguides. The aim of this project would be to continue the development of this fabrication technique for creating novel waveguiding structures and applying it to the area of laser and non-linear devices. For example, because many different materials can be combined in this way, it is possible to make very high numerical aperture waveguides suitable for compact high-power, diode-pumped, laser systems. It has also recently been shown that contact-bonded waveguides based on periodically poled LiNbO3 offer high second-harmonic conversion efficiency. Extension of this work to waveguides for optical parametric generators and oscillators, novel glass waveguide lasers, and many other possible areas of interest will give the student the opportunity to develop a wide experience in the field of optoelectronics and interact with various active research groups within the ORC.

Click here for a full list of PhD projects available at the ORC