Efficient silicon optical modulators (EPICAL)

Several important areas such as data centres, LiDAR, programmable photonic circuits, quantum computing and environmental sensors need much better optical phase shifters and modulators that can reduce power consumption. Here, we propose novel solutions for the realisation of heterogeneous phase shifters and modulators that can

Efficient silicon optical modulators (EPICAL) 1. Details transform the field of silicon photonics and make a significant impact in the aforementioned applications. We will investigate the integration of silicon photonics devices with BaTiO3 (BTO) that has one of the largest Pockels coefficients, using mass manufacturable techniques

and new design ideas, which will pave the way for the demonstration of compact and low power silicon photonic circuits. The most important aspect of the proposed work is to demonstrate that BTO with large Pockels effects can be grown directly on Si platforms. We will investigate orientation of the films, and their

optimum compositions and thicknesses, to demonstrate efficient phase shifters and modulators. The key objectives of the proposal are: - To develop direct and fast growth of relatively thick BTO/BSTO films with large Pockels coefficients on Si platforms. - To investigate variations of BTO/BSTO compositions and their

influence on the film quality. - To study the role of dopants for the enhancement the Pockels effect. - To demonstrate efficient hybrid modulators in Si technology using the developed films. - To explore operation of the modulators at longer wavelengths and low temperatures. This proposal brings together experts and leading groups from silicon

photonics and perovskite material growth, with complementary expertise and facilities to tackle a very challenging task of the realisation of compact and efficient modulators in silicon.