Photonic effects caused by multiple discontinuities in optical waveguides

The scattering properties of discontinuities between dielectric waveguides are obtained by using a new generalised scattering matrix concept, together with the generalised telegraphist equations formulism and the modal matching technique. There is no restriction either on the cross-section shape of the dielectrics or on the refractive index profile functions of the waveguides. Modal propagation characteristics, radiation losses and complex scattering coefficients between proper modes can be obtained for monomode and multimode dielectric waveguides connected in cascade. Results of the complex scattering coefficients were evaluated. Photonic bandgaps, photonic windows and optical switching properties were obtained for periodic structures at optical frequencies.