Open AccessPlasmonic multi-mode interference couplers
Author(s) -
Yu-Ju Tsai,
Aloyse Degiron,
N.M. Jokerst,
David R. Smith
Publication year - 2009
Publication title -
optics express
Language(s) - Uncategorized
Resource type - Journals
SCImago Journal Rank - 1.394
H-Index - 271
ISSN - 1094-4087
DOI - 10.1364/oe.17.017471
Subject(s) - plasmon , optics , interference (communication) , power dividers and directional couplers , surface plasmon , coupled mode theory , wavelength , materials science , surface plasmon polariton , optoelectronics , refractive index , physics , telecommunications , computer science , channel (broadcasting)
Plasmonic multi-mode interference (MMI) couplers have been investigated both numerically and experimentally at the telecommunication wavelength of 1.55 mum. In this study, the couplers are implemented using thin Au stripes that support long-range surface plasmons. We first detail the operation principle of these devices with numerical simulations and show that useful effects can be obtained despite the high material losses inherent to metallic structures. A series of MMI couplers is subsequently fabricated and experimentally characterized, showing a quantitative agreement with our numerical predictions. We conclude by discussing some of the possible applications for these structures.