Electromagnetic-Attack-Resistant EO Polymer/Sol-gel Modulator

RF photonic links provide an attractive approach to minimizing the impact of an electromagnetic attack on defense and commercial communications infrastructure. A key component in an RF photonic link is an electro-optic (EO) modulator, and current commercially available EO modulators are not able to withstand the 10kW peak power pulses that can results from an electromagnetic attack, such as an electromagnetic pulse (EMP). In the proposed program, TIPD, LLC will develop design concepts and materials candidates for a novel EMP-hard modulator based on its proven EO polymer/sol-gel modulator platform, which has achieved low drive voltages (~ few volts), low insertion loss (~ 5dB or less) and high speed operation suitable for RF photonics links. The EMP-hard properties of the modulator will derive from the unique, dielectric breakdown suppression properties of TIPD"s sol-gel materials, which have been used in high dielectric breakdown strength applications like claddings for EO polymer modulators and high energy storage density capacitors. The Phase I program will comprise modulator design, materials selection, electrical/thermal modeling, and high frequency/high voltage materials characterization, while the Phase I Option will include prototype phase modulator development and roadmapping the testing needs of Phase II.