Optical Materials Processing for High Linearity Electro-optic Modulators

Modulation linearity and efficiency, in addition to bandwidth, are important parameters characterizing a modulator. In general, improving modulation efficiency is highly desirable, as long as bandwidth is maintained, since higher modulation efficiency allows lower RF signal to impose equivalent change in the optical beam; better linearity of modulation reduces spurs and improves the fidelity of optical transmission and processing. The goal of this Phase II SBIR is to develop novel modulator concepts based on heretofore unexplored phenomena. It has been demonstrated theoretically that the proposed modulators enhance modulation efficiency as well as linearity while preserving broadband modulator response. In addition to developing fabrication methods, Phase I of the effort uncovered a new modulator architecture exploiting the originally proposed principles but simplifying the fabrication and improving modulator performance. Phase II will build on the experimental and theoretical results of Phase I, including the developed fabrication processes and designs, to reduce the concept to practice.