Efficient band-edge light injection in two-dimensional planar photonic crystals using a gradual interface

Abstract

Experimental results about efficient band-edge light coupling into two-dimensional planar photonic crystals by the use of a gradual interface are reported. It is shown that a chirp of both the lattice period and the hole diameter on short lengths below 3μm allows maintaining high optical transmission spectra close to the band-gap frequency where strongly dispersive phenomena can be exploited. If compared with nonoptimized structures, increased optical levels by 15to20dB are obtained using gradual tapering stages. © 2009 Society of Photo-Optical Instrumentation Engineers.