Abstract

Because of the scaling of light-matter interaction with the confinement of the electromagnetic field, close to diffraction-limited, dielectric resonators are the cornerstone of novel photonic devices and fundamental research. The availability of advanced fabrication technologies has motivated strategies for optimal design, whereas efficient computing and genetic algorithms are used to tackle the many degrees of freedom available. Other strategies attempt harnessing disorder and imperfections to achieve ultimate optical confinement.

Here we will discuss a radically different approach: quasi-periodic photonic structures, governed by a very reduced set of parameters, already providing much desired features for novel devices but also for studying fundamental interaction. In order to illustrate this concept I will discuss a few examples: optical parametric oscillators, optomechanics and silicon photonics.

Abstract

This work investigates the reflection sensitivity of a hybrid III-V on silicon narrow line semiconductor laser based on a high quality factor grating. Experimental results reveal a floor-free operation under optical feedback hence indicating that such lasers can function without optical isolators.

Abstract

Stable mode locking and dissipative soliton formation are predicted in a laser cavity with an effective photonic harmonic potential. As all modes starting from the fundamental are involved, the cavity is substantially more compact than a Fabry-Perot resonator with comparable pulsing period.