Open AccessModulating dispersion properties of low index photonic crystal structures using microfluidics
Author(s) -
Ahmed Sharkawy,
David M. Pustai,
Shouyuan Shi,
Dennis W. Prather,
S. E. McBride,
P. J. Zanzucchi
Publication year - 2005
Publication title -
optics express
Language(s) - English
Resource type - Journals
SCImago Journal Rank - 1.394
H-Index - 271
ISSN - 1094-4087
DOI - 10.1364/opex.13.002814
Subject(s) - refractive index , optics , materials science , microfluidics , photonic crystal , lens (geology) , dispersion (optics) , total internal reflection , lattice (music) , optoelectronics , nanotechnology , physics , acoustics
We present a technique for manipulating the dispersive properties of low index periodic structures using microfluidic materials that fill the lattice with various fluids of different refractive indices. In order to quantify the modulation of the optical properties of the periodic structure we use Equi-frequency contours (EFC) data to calculate the frequency dependant refractive index and the refractive angle. We further introduce various types of defects by selectively filling specific lattice sites and measuring the relative change in the index of refraction. Finally we design and optically characterize an adaptive low index photonic crystal based lens with tunable optical properties using various microfluidics. We also present experimental results for a silicon-based PhC lens used as an optical coupling element.