Adaptive Photonic Integrated Circuit (PIC)-based Spectral Processor for Dynamic Fiber-Optic Sensing

IFOS and STTR Partner Northwestern University propose to investigate the commercial viability of rapid transition of enhanced high-speed fiber-optic sensing systems. Fiber Bragg Grating (FBG) sensing based on Two Wave Mixing Interferometry (TWMI) in Photo-Refractive Crystals (PRC) has already been commercialized for dual-use applications. In this project, IFOS will leverage its experience as leading commercial high-speed FBG sensing system provider and in Photonic Integrated Circuits (PIC) to significantly enhance the TWMI sensing approach. The proposed Adaptive PIC Spectral Processor – APIC-SP – will for the first time enable implementation of TWMI in PRC on a monolithically integrated semiconductor platform for reduced Size, Weight, and Power (SWaP) and higher robustness for demanding dual-use applications.