Rapid Low-Loss Polymer PIC Platforms Using High-Index Nanoimprintable Materials

HighRI Optics, in collaboration with Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory (LBNL) Molecular Foundry, proposes an innovative approach to photonic integrated circuits (PICs) utilizing proprietary, patternable high-refractive index polymers (HRI). By combining HRI materials with a low-cost, rapid fabrication method, we will establish an affordable prototyping platform for low-loss polymer waveguides. This platform will serve as a foundational waveguide foundry, enabling efficient PIC component fabrication. Additionally, incorporating nonlinear polymers and quantum dots into HRI materials will facilitate the development of active photonic devices, expanding the functionality and applications of polymer-based PICs. Our proprietary optical coupling method achieves a remarkable 0.5 dB per facet optical coupling loss.