Laser written waveguide photonic quantum circuits

Authors :: Marshall, G. D.
Politi, A.
Matthews, J. C. F.
Dekker, P.
Ams, M.
Withford, M. J.
O'Brien, J. L.
Source :: Optics Express, Vol. 17, No. 15, pp. 12546-12554, 20 July 2009
Publication Year :: 2009
Abstract: We report photonic quantum circuits created using an ultrafast laser processing technique that is rapid, requires no lithographic mask and can be used to create three-dimensional networks of waveguide devices. We have characterized directional couplers--the key functional elements of photonic quantum circuits--and found that they perform as well as lithographically produced waveguide devices. We further demonstrate high-performance interferometers and an important multi-photon quantum interference phenomenon for the first time in integrated optics. This direct-write approach will enable the rapid development of sophisticated quantum optical circuits and their scaling into three-dimensions.<br />Comment: 4 pages, 4 figures. Submitted to Optics Express 04/04/2009, accepted for publication 30/06/09