Induced Bragg Gratings in Optical Fibers and Waveguides Using an Ultrafast Infrared Laser and a Phase Mask

Since its development in 2003, the technique of Bragg grating inscription in optical fibers and waveguides with ultrafast infrared radiation and a phase mask has proven to be as simple as the standard UV-laser grating writing techniques but far more versatile. The ultrafast IR laser-based process allows for the creation of grating structures in glassy and crystalline materials that are not typically UV photosensitive. In this article, we will review the studies that have been performed at the Communications Research Centre Canada on the grating formation processes as well as applications of the ultrafast laser technique to fabricate gratings in various optical fibers and waveguides.