Spontaneous parametric down conversion in a nanophotonic waveguide.
Recently, we verified that spontaneous parametric down conversion (SPDC) is enhanced in a waveguide, in agreement with theory showing an inverse dependence on mode confinement [1]. Here we investigate highly-confined nanophotonic waveguides designed to maximize the SPDC rate. A theory modified to include highly-confined waveguides is used to calculate the spectral width and pair generation rates in a sample system. Pair generation rates exceeding 10(9)/sec/nm/mW are predicted for periodically-poled KTP (PPKTP) nanophotonic waveguides. This results in an enhancement of the downconverted signal power greater than 45x that of low-index-contrast PPKTP waveguides and greater than 6500x that of bulk PPKTP crystals.
Spillane
Sean M
SM
Fiorentino
Marco
M
Beausoleil
Raymond G
RG