title: Cladded self-written multimode step-index waveguides using a one-polymer approach.
abstract: Low-loss optical-coupling structures are highly relevant for applications in fields as diverse as information and communication technologies, integrated circuits, or flexible and highly-functional polymer sensor networks. For this suitable and reliable production methods are crucial. Self-written waveguides are an interesting solution. In this work, we present a simple and efficient one-polymer approach for self-written optical connections between light-guiding structures such as single-mode and multi-mode optical fibers or waveguides that relies on self focusing of the light inside a photopolymerizing mixture. The optical connections are produced in a two-step process by writing into monomer resin using cw laser light in the blue wavelength range and subsequent UV curing. Since only one photopolymerizing resin is required, we reduced the fabrication complexity compared to previous approaches to obtain a waveguide embedded in a rigid cladding material. We discuss the production method, the results obtained as function of relevant process parameters such as writing speed or curing time, and evaluate optical properties and coupling efficiencies.
authors: Axel
authors: A
authors: Günther
authors: Ann Britt
authors: AB
authors: Petermann
authors: Uwe
authors: U
authors: Gleissner
authors: Thomas
authors: T
authors: Hanemann
authors: Eduard
authors: E
authors: Reithmeier
authors: Maik
authors: M
authors: Rahlves
authors: Merve
authors: M
authors: Meinhardt-Wollweber
authors: Uwe
authors: U
authors: Morgner
authors: Bernhard
authors: B
authors: Roth