Open AccessHigh index contrast polymer waveguide platform for integrated biophotonics
Author(s) -
Jennifer Halldorsson,
Nína Björk Arnfinnsdóttir,
Ásta Björk Jónsdóttir,
Björn Agnarsson,
Kristján Leósson
Publication year - 2010
Publication title -
optics express
Language(s) - English
Resource type - Journals
SCImago Journal Rank - 1.394
H-Index - 271
ISSN - 1094-4087
DOI - 10.1364/oe.18.016217
Subject(s) - cladding (metalworking) , materials science , waveguide , biophotonics , optics , refractive index , refractive index contrast , coupled mode theory , optoelectronics , resonator , photonics , fabrication , physics , medicine , alternative medicine , pathology , metallurgy
We present detailed characterization of a unique high-index-contrast integrated optical polymer waveguide platform where the index of the cladding material is closely matched to that of water. Single-mode waveguides designed to operate across a large part of the visible spectrum have been fabricated and waveguide properties, including mode size, bend loss and evanescent coupling have been modeled using effective-index approximation, finite-element and finite-difference time domain methods. Integrated components such as directional couplers for wavelength splitting and ring resonators for refractive-index or temperature sensing have been modeled, fabricated and characterized. The waveguide platform described here is applicable to a wide range of biophotonic applications relying on evanescent-wave sensing or excitation, offering a high level of integration and functionality. The technology is biocompatible and suitable for wafer-level mass production.