Emerging photonic devices based on photonic liquid crystal fibers

Abstract

Photonic liquid crystal fibers (PLCFs) define a new class of optical waveguides that combines unique properties of microstructured photonic crystal fibers and liquid crystals. Current progress of research in the field of PLCFs means that a new class of emerging photonics devices can be expected, i.e. tunable attenuators, tunable broad-band filters, tunable polarizers (with an arbitrary PDL and a variable axis of polarization), tunable waveplates, and tunable phase shifters with high retardance will appear in the near future. In this work we would like to discuss this perspective, paying special attention to two most challenging technological issues such as control of LC molecules orientation and permanent connecting of PLCFs to standard fibers. © 2011 Photonics Society of Poland.