title: Tunable optical coupler controlled by optical gradient forces.
abstract: We demonstrate optical gradient force-tunable directional couplers in free-standing silicon nitride slot waveguides. Utilizing device geometries optimized for strong optomechanical interactions allows us to control the optical transmission without the aid of a cavity. Static, wideband tuning as well as low-power optical modulation is achieved.
authors.affiliation: Department of Electrical Engineering, Yale University, New Haven, CT 06511, USA.
authors.forename: King Y
authors.initials: KY
authors.lastname: Fong
authors.forename: Wolfram H P
authors.initials: WH
authors.lastname: Pernice
authors.forename: Mo
authors.initials: M
authors.lastname: Li
authors.forename: Hong X
authors.initials: HX
authors.lastname: Tang
mesh_terms: D003198:Computer Simulation; D003460:Crystallization; D004867:Equipment Design; D007368:Interferometry / Q000379:methods; D007834:Lasers; D008422:Materials Testing; D008962:Models, Theoretical; D053758:Nanoparticles / Q000737:chemistry; D036103:Nanotechnology / Q000379:methods; D055095:Optics and Photonics / Q000379:methods*; D017785:Photons; D012031:Refractometry; D017655:Silicon Compounds / Q000737:chemistry; D013997:Time Factors
chemical_list: D017655:Silicon Compounds; C032734:silicon nitride