Abstract
The continual success of superconducting photon-detection technologies in quantum photonics asserts cryogenic-compatible systems as a cornerstone of full quantum photonic integration. Here, we present a way to reversibly fine-tune the optical properties of individual waveguide structures through local changes to their geometry using solidified xenon. Essentially, we remove the need for additional on-chip calibration elements, effectively zeroing the power consumption tied to reconfigurable elements, with virtually no detriment to photonic device performance. We enable passive circuit tuning in pressure-controlled environments, locally manipulating the cladding thickness over portions of optical waveguides. We realize this in a cryogenic environment, through controlled deposition of xenon gas and precise tuning of its thickness using sublimation, triggered by on-chip resistive heaters. π-Phase shifts occur over a calculated length of just Lπ = 12.3 ± 0.3 μm. This work paves the way toward the integration of compact, reconfigurable photonic circuits alongside superconducting detectors, devices, or otherwise.
Original language | English |
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Article number | https://doi.org/10.1021/acsphotonics.1c00714 |
Pages (from-to) | 2683-2691 |
Number of pages | 9 |
Journal | ACS Photonics |
Volume | 8 |
Issue number | 9 |
Early online date | 27 Aug 2021 |
DOIs | |
Publication status | Published - 15 Sept 2021 |
Research Groups and Themes
- Bristol Quantum Information Institute
- Photonics and Quantum
- QETLabs
Keywords
- Integrated Photonics
- Optical Properties
- Quantum Photonics
- Optical Switching
- Calibration
- Phase-Change
- Phase-Shift