Dispersion engineering in optical microcavities

• Grant number: 24/04132-3
• Support Opportunities: Scholarships in Brazil - Scientific Initiation
• Start date: April 01, 2024
• End date: December 31, 2025
• Field of knowledge: Physical Sciences and Mathematics - Physics - Condensed Matter Physics
• Principal Investigator: Thiago Pedro Mayer Alegre
• Grantee: Gustavo Nunes Martins
• Host Institution: Instituto de Física Gleb Wataghin (IFGW). Universidade Estadual de Campinas (UNICAMP). Campinas , SP, Brazil
• Associated research grant: 18/25339-4 - Integrated photonics devices, AP.TEM

Abstract

The primary objective of this project is to deepen our understanding of group velocity dispersion within optical microcavities. We will conduct a thorough investigation into fundamental optical properties, including optical modes and dispersion characteristics. Experimental procedures for measuring dispersion will be explored to accurately characterize linear properties, such as free spectral range of optical resonators. Initially, we will clarify dispersion concepts and calibrate it using a Mach-Zehnder interferometer. Additionally, we will focus on characterizing dispersion within silica microsphere optical cavities. These objectives will guide the student's comprehension of dispersion in nonlinear optics, particularly in the context of Kerr frequency comb generation. Finally, we will explore how Kerr combs interact with mechanical degrees of freedom and potentially delve into multimode optical microcavities to induce simultaneous Kerr frequency combs within a single cavity.