Semiconductor Superlattice: A Platform for Photonic Integrated Circuits

Sean Wagner

The Edward S. Rogers Sr. Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering (Photonics)

Abstract:

Photonic integrated circuits in semiconductors have the potential to enable more comprehensive all-optical signal processing devices and long-wavelength (> 2 µm) laser sources with applications in telecommunications, environmental sensing, and medical analysis. Placing several devices onto a single chip requires that the properties of the material be suited to each device. Semiconductor superlattices based on the GaAs/AlGaAs material system offer such flexible tailoring through the use of quantum-well intermixing techniques. This technology allows active/passive and linear/nonlinear devices to be monolithically integrated onto the same chip in a cost effective manner. In this seminar, I will focus on the nonlinear properties of GaAs/AlGaAs superlattice waveguides and the related devices that can be fabricated. Results showing large modifications in the band gap energy, refractive index, and nonlinear properties will be presented and their impact on device efficiencies will be discussed. I will also present recent experiments with quasi-phase matching waveguides for wavelength conversion devices and look ahead to future possibilities for this particular application.

Biography:

Sean Wagner received a B.A.Sc. degree in computer engineering from University of Waterloo in 2003, and a M.A.Sc. degree from the University of Toronto in 2006 where his research included characterizing the nonlinear properties of semiconductor superlattice waveguides and devices. He has held positions at IBM Canada, Philips Analytical (a former division of Royal Philips Electronics), and Evertz Microsystems Inc. Currently, he is a Ph.D candidate in the Photonics Group where he is continuing his work with superlattice waveguides. His research interests include nonlinear optics, all-optical switching and signal processing, and monolithic integration techniques for optical and optoelectronic components in semiconductors.