Journal of Lightwave Technology | 2021
Writing 3D Waveguides With Femtosecond Pulses in Polymers
Abstract
We present novel waveguide writing concepts in bulk PMMA. The writing relies on laser induced modification tracks that are completely surrounding a waveguide core. We found the optimal parameters to construct highly reproducible, single-mode waveguides with minimal propagation losses down to 0.6\xa0dB\xa0<inline-formula><tex-math notation= LaTeX >${\\rm cm}^{-1}$</tex-math></inline-formula>. Employing the best geometry, we demonstrate 2D and 3D Y-splitters that are the building blocks for creating complex optical networks such as sensors or lab-on-chip devices in polymer materials.