Non-Linear Optical Devices for High Performance Networking, Computing and Telecommunication Routing and Modulating

61030 As highly dense, optical-based metropolitan telecommunication networks grow, along with the concurrent need for high-speed data packet switching, lower cost, higher speed, reliable, routing/modulating devices must be found. Reliable, stable optical routing devices will bring the high speed optical network backbone closer to the end user and increase total network speed dramatically. This project will develop devices for optical switching and modulating using an innovative non linear polymer. The electro-optic property of the polymer enables its use for optical switching. The innovative method of forming the polymer provides not only superior electro-optic performance but long term stability as well. Phase I selected appropriate reactants, modified equipment as necessary for the polymerization process, synthesized the polymers, and measured both their non linear optical properties and their stability versus time and temperature. The electro-optic properties exceeded published literature values and confirmed excellent stability of both optical and mechanical properties. Phase II will optimize reactant selection and refine the deposition apparatus for high volume production capability. Prototype devices will be fabricated, and their performance will be characterized before and after life testing. Commercial Applications and Other Benefits as described by the awardee: The technology should provide a significant advantage to the production of optical switches (a projected seven billion dollar market worldwide by 2004) and high speed optical modulators (a projected eight billion dollar market worldwide by 2004). The technology also provides the building block for wavelength agile devices, which will be vital for the high speed internet of the future and for reconfigurable optical networking and telecommunication.