All-Optical Wavelength Conversion using Silicon Photonic Wire Waveguide

Abstract

We demonstrate two types of all-optical wavelength conversion devices using nonlinear optical effects in silicon photonic wire waveguides. One is based on cross-absorption modulation using two-photon absorption (TPA). The other is based on four-wave mixing and gives an internal conversion efficiency of about -11 dB. Conversion performances in both devices are degraded by free-carrier absorption (FCA) originating from the TPA. To eliminate FCA, we propose some techniques including lattice-defect implantations to reduce carrier lifetime