Abstract

Microphotonics
Photonic materials have played the key role in recent optical communication
revolution, and continue to define new limits for our understanding of photon-matter
interaction. The ever-increasing demand for higher data capacity translates into
increased bandwidth and higher bit-rates, which are fast approaching the
fundamental limits. This motivates us to search for new materials with enhanced
physical properties. This seminar will provide a brief overview of the physics of
present bottlenecks, and summarize our research efforts in ultra transparent optical
fibers, wide-band optical amplifiers, and ultrahigh speed optical-switching, which can
become the key components of the future optical networks.
Microphotonics is the science of microscale photonic structures and
components: Photonic bandgap structures, microstructured optical fibres, silicon-on-
insulator based planar devices, silica photonic nanowires and nanofluidic devices.
Microphotonics technology is being developed to replace electronics in devices
optical router would eliminate this bottleneck, speeding up the network. Perfect
mirrors are being developed for use in fiber optic cables. The goal of microphotonics
is to integrate photonic functionalities on i chips to eventually realize electronic and
photonic integrated circuits !"P#$s%. The current trend for i microphotonics to
integrate photonics is making all photonic devices $omplementary Metal &'ide
emiconductor !$M&% materials- and process-compatible. i technology has made
significant inroads in the () commercial markets. The current state of the art of
silicon microphotonics technology is reviewed with emphasis on limitations to its
potential for applications in () photonic applications.