Micro Wavelength-Division-Multiplexers (¿WDM) Based on Holographically Formed Photonic Bandgap Polymers

"Photonic bandgap crystals exhibit unique property of strong dispersion that is particularly useful for producing ultra small wavelength separation devices with much improved performance at reduced cost. These artificially micro structured materialscontain periodically modulated dielectric constant on a length scale comparable to the wavelength of light. It has been realized that the lack of fabrication technology and the lack of photonic materials significantly slow down the technology advancementin this area.In this Phase I program, Crystal Research, Inc. proposes a micro wavelength-division-demultiplexer (¿WDMs) based on holographically formed photonic bandgap polymers. CRI's technology breakthrough in forming unique photonic polymers based on conventionalholography technology breaks a new ground for fabrication of photonic bandgap materials. No complicated fabrication and material engineering are required. The innovative photonic bandgap polymers developed at Crystal Research have the dispersion of light1,000 times stronger that the dispersion in conventional prisms. The application of such photonic bandgap polymers can create the next generation of integrated micro-scale planar lightwave circuits ( PLCs).We will deliver preliminary prototype of ¿WDM device made of photonic bandgap polymers with a device dimension at least 1000 times smaller in area compared to any existing WDM devices. The proposed ¿WDM concept will open a