Ultra-Compact Photonic Isolator Based on Bias-Free Magneto-Optical Thin Films

Author(s)

Portela, Gianni ; Ni, Yisheng ; Sato, Kotaro ; Shoji, Yuya ; Hernandez-Figueroa, Hugo E.

• Document type: Journal article
• Source: PROGRESS IN ELECTROMAGNETICS RESEARCH-PIER; v. 182, p. 7-pg., 2025-01-01.

Abstract

An ultra-compact isolator based on the integration of aluminum-substituted cobalt ferrite films with magneto-optical activity to a silicon microring resonator is suggested. The strong remanent magnetization of the employed magneto-optical material allows the operation of the device without any external magnetizing elements, and the device footprint is only 150 mu m2. A prototype chip has been fabricated using conventional processes compatible with the silicon on an insulator platform, and a maximum isolation ratio of 7 dB at the 1557.6 nm wavelength has been achieved. To the best of our knowledge, this is the most compact photonic isolator demonstrated to date, and it is suitable for all-optical circuits with extremely high integration density. (AU)

• FAPESP's process: 22/02391-6 - Magnetless circulators based on cobalt ferrite films for optical communication systems
• Grantee: Gianni Masaki Tanaka Portela
• Support Opportunities: Scholarships abroad - Research Internship - Post-doctor
• FAPESP's process: 21/00199-8 - SMART NEtworks and ServiceS for 2030 (SMARTNESS)
• Grantee: Christian Rodolfo Esteve Rothenberg
• Support Opportunities: Research Grants - Research Centers in Engineering Program
• FAPESP's process: 21/11380-5 - CPTEn - São Paulo Center for the Study of Energy Transition
• Grantee: Luiz Carlos Pereira da Silva
• Support Opportunities: Research Grants - Science Centers for Development
• FAPESP's process: 22/11596-0 - Scientific EMU: acquisition of transmission and characterization equipment for ultra-high-speed data links
• Grantee: Darli Augusto de Arruda Mello
• Support Opportunities: Research Infrastructure Program - Scientific
• FAPESP's process: 19/13667-0 - Optical circulators based on iron garnets without external magnetization
• Grantee: Gianni Masaki Tanaka Portela
• Support Opportunities: Scholarships in Brazil - Post-Doctoral