Nanotube Bonlinear Waveguides for Next Generation Electrophotonics

The discovery that carbon atoms can form molecules with spherical andtubular geometry has provided researchers with a new class of materialswith unique properties called carbon nanotubes (CNTs). In particular,these CNTs possess remarkable mechanical and electrical properties thathave been used to produce ultra-strong fibres and electron sources fordisplays, amongst many other applications. Recently, studies on theoptical properties of these materials have shown that they have much tooffer in this area as well. These materials exhibit unique absorptionand emission properties that can be controlled through changing thediameter of the carbon tubes. They also have significant potentialthrough the use of their so called non-linear optical properties. Theseproperties are generally observed when high light intensities arepresent and can be used to control and adapt this light. For example itis possible to rapidly switch the light on and off, change thewavelength (colour) of the light and even form a continuum of light froma short pulse using non-linear properties.The aim of this proposal is to develop a new generation ofelectrophotonic materials by embedding these carbon nanotubes in polymerand chalcogenide glass hosts. Within these CNT-doped hosts, waveguideswill be formed and their linear and non-linear optical propertiesstudied. We will exploit them to realise highly functional planarlightwave devices. A key point is that this material will be capable offorming both optical as well as thin-film electronic devices using verysimilar fabrication processes, thereby opening the door towards thelow-cost mass manufacture of fully integrated electrophotonic circuitsand systems. Such a development would represent a significant advance inthis area and allow a new generation of devices and systems to bedeveloped.