This paper explores the modelling of an integrated photonic power divider that utilizes the degree of crystallization of an Sb2Se3 phase-change material (PCM) patch to achieve variable power distribution ratios. The fraction of crystallinity of Sb2Se3, ranging from 0 to 1, provides a dynamic control mechanism for the device. Simulations were performed using a combination of optimization algorithms and wave optics interface within COMSOL Multiphysics® to arrive at the optimum distribution of amorphous and crystalline fractions to achieve a required power distribution. The transmission coefficients serve as control variables to direct light to the upper or lower port, allowing the power divider to function as a reconfigurable and compact photonic device. These findings provide valuable insights into the use of PCMs for advancing photonic power dividers.
This paper presents an optimized, reconfigurable, ultra-compact mode converter device designed for efficient conversion between transverse electric (TE) modes, specifically TE0 and TE1. The mode conversion is achieved through the manipulation of an antimony selenide (Sb2Se3) phase-change material (PCM) layer, integrated on the top surface of a silicon waveguide. The device’s performance was investigated numerically at a wavelength of 1550 nm, focusing on optimizing the size of the phase-change layer to enhance transmission and minimize losses. With a footprint of just 4 μm × 3 μm, this converter is highly suitable for integrated photonic systems, including optical communication, signal processing, and photonic circuits. The dynamic reconfigurability is facilitated by the reversible phase transitions of Sb2Se3 between its amorphous and crystalline states, enabling low-loss mode conversion. By leveraging this material and its properties, the converter achieves high transmission efficiency with minimal insertion loss. These findings pave the way for more compact and efficient photonic devices, addressing the critical demand for reconfigurable mode converters in integrated photonics. This work represents a significant advance in device performance and footprint reduction, positioning it as a state-of-the-art solution for next-generation photonic applications.
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