A novel approach to three-dimensional (3D) reconfigurable optical circuitry based on organic materials will be developed. Two-dimensional arrays of coupled channel waveguides will be photo-written into bulk polymer blocks doped with molecularly engineered molecules. State-of-the-art organic materials, which exhibit both the required flexibility and large nonlinear optical properties, will be used. Signal and control beams will be localized in and switched between different waveguides by changing the local refractive index either all-optically (using newly discovered discrete solitons) or electro-optically.
In general terms, this program will include adapting laser writing techniques developed for glasses at CREOL to the formation of arrays of closely spaced waveguides in doped polymer samples. The preliminary soliton-based routing/switching network scheme proposed by Christodoulides will be "fleshed out" and a version designed for electro-optic control and localization. Research into laser-initiated formation of small channels to be filled with liquid metals will be based on these designs. The basic routing functions within the arrays will be tested, characterized and implemented. The ultimate goal is to demonstrate controllable signal routing in 3D.
Intellectual Merit: This research will address fundamental questions and technological problems associated with novel 3D solutions to current limitations imposed on optical networks by planar fabrication technologies. There should be many intellectual and technological fall-outs.
Broader Impact: This program addresses the needs of the rapidly expanding information age for more sophisticated means for manipulating progressively more information in the optical domain. In addition, the technical workforce will be enriched by appropriately trained students.
