Research -- Photonic Materials and Devices

The NPM Group is developing new processes for creating functional passive and active photonic materials and devices. Our approach involves using multi-photon 3D microfabrication (3DM) coupled with other conventional fabrication techniques to pattern materials and devices into tailored micro- and nano-scale structure. We are using 3DM to create waveguides, optical couplers, and photonic crystals that can be directly incorporated with active photonic elements.

We are also exploring how surface functionalization chemistry can be coupled with 3DM as a means for creating tailored photonic materials with controlled micro- and nano-scale structure. We have developed a process for conformally depositing silver and other noble metals onto the surface of polymeric 3D micron-scale structures prepared by 3DM. The method enables us to create conductive structures and micro- and nano-photonic materials with unusual optical properties.  More information on the process we have developed can be found in the publication listed below.

Yun-Sheng Chen, Amir Tal, David B. Torrance, and Stephen M. Kuebler, "Fabrication and characterization of three-dimensional silver-coated polymeric microstructures," Adv. Funct. Mater., 2006, vol. 16(13), pp. 1739-1744.

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