Polymer Optical Waveguide Switch Using Thermo-Optic Total-Internal-Reflection and Strain-Effect

A new optical waveguide switch using thermo-optic total-internal-reflection and strain-induced effects in polymer materials has been experimentally demonstrated. The switch consists of three-layered slab waveguides and two metal strip lines that are located close to one another on top of the upper cladding. The deposition of metal strips introduces strain in the underlying polymer materials, creating two strain-induced optical waveguides for the cross state. Current applied along these metal strips results in a thermo-optic based total-internal-reflection waveguide between the two metal strips for the bar state. The fabrication and the device characteristics of the new optical switch are reported.