Laser Growth and Processing of Photonic Devices

10

Femtosecond-laser-induced refractive index modifications for photonic device processing

M. Ams, D.J. Little and M.J. Withford,     Macquarie University, Australia

Abstract:

The femtosecond laser direct-write technique has emerged as a powerful tool for fabricating high-quality integrated photonic components. The direct-write platform combines flexible, rapid prototype with genuine 3D capability, compatibility with fibre-optics and the ability to process almost any transparent material. In this chapter, the physics that underpin the femtosecond laser-induced modification and the mechanisms that result in the emergence of a local refractive index change are reviewed. Experimental methods for leveraging this process to make photonic components ...