Abstract

Narrow linewidth optical fibers which can be monolithically integrated with laser diodes and optical detectors are of fundamental importance in optical communications systems. We report here on the development of an integrated optic TE-TM polarization converter using GaAs/AlGaAs multiple quantum well (MQW) strip-loaded waveguides. The exceptionally large modal dispersion for these waveguides, at wavelengths approaching the heavy and light hole excitonic resonances, is responsible for producing a narrow device linewidth of ~0.6 nm at a wavelength of 870.5 nm. Cascaded with appropriate integrated optic polarizers, this device could form the basis for a narrow bandwidth optical filter,¹ on a semiconductor substrate.

© 1991 Optical Society of America