High-power waveguide converters

Large-mode-area waveguides for high-power frequency conversion

Waveguides allow efficient frequency conversion as they keep light focused over their entire propagation length. For the best performance, the mode-profile diameter should be as small as possible to achieve a maximum field enhancement. On the other hand, the internal light intensity must not exceed the host materials damage threshold. Thus, a careful balance between maximum input power, mode-field diameter and host material is indispensable to get to best performance out of a waveguide-based frequency converter. Large-mode-area waveguides have a rather large mode field diameter (> 10 µm), which allows high-power (several Watts) light guidance.

Fraunhofer IPM as one-stop shop for high-power waveguide converters

Fraunhofer IPM has established a full technology chain in-house for high-power waveguide converters: In-house periodic poling technology for nonlinear optical media like lithium niobate or lithium tantalate allows to phase match any desired target wavelengths. Using In-house direct-laser writing of large-mode-area waveguides via ultrafast laser pulses in the bulk periodically poled lithium niobate and lithium tantalate provide flexibility for fully customized waveguide designs at short turnaround times. Our technology portfolio is completed by an in-house optical workshop for end-facet polishing. For waveguide testing, we have access to almost any wavelength in the range between 300 nm and 3,4 µm.