Completed Research 1995 to 2006

Theme 1 (1995-1999):
Integrated Optoelectronic Sensor Module

In 1995, the objective of this theme was to develop a tunable laser which could be used as a light source for the fibre optic sensors under development in Theme 2. To accomplish this, it was necessary to develop quantum-well-integrated optoelectronic chip technology that would convert optical signals from fibre optic Bragg grating structural sensors to meaningful electrical signals.  The research comprised:

• Design, fabrication and characterization of a tunable laser in the 980-nm and 1550-nm range.

• Development of the etched laser facets and selected area epitaxial growth required for monolithic integration of the laser and wavelength selective detection system on the same chip.  The research used the unique facilities at McMaster University.

• Design, fabrication and characterization of a wavelength detection system.

• Wavelength monitoring based on a GaAs/A1GaAs tunable waveguide filter and GaAS/InGaP/InGaAs dual in-line detectors.

• Construction and testing of the integrated optoelectronic sensor module.  The research consisted of fabrication of laser and diode separately.

• Investigation of three approaches for the integrated sensor modules: Bragg fibre extended cavity laser system, super luminescent laser diode system, and tunable laser diode system.

• Investigation and improvement of the efficiency of the coupling of the laser and optical fibre using angle facets ranging from 0 to 10 degrees to determine the optimal angle.

• Determination of the chemistry and power levels of the reactive ion etching process to produce smooth vertical sidewalls in the InGaP - InGaAs material system to develop anti-reflection facet coatings and etch facets for lasers.

• Testing and characterization of etched-facet laser integrated with photo detectors.

At the commencement of Theme 1 in 1995, the following slate of projects were involved.

Laser Design, Fabrication and Characterization (T1.1)
Project Leader: Dr. David Thompson, McMaster University

Design, Fabrication and Characterization Selection Detection (T1.2)
Project Leader: Dr. P. Jessop, McMaster University

Construction and Testing of Integrated Optoelectronic Sensor Module (T1.3)
Project Leader: Dr. John Simmons, McMaster University

Anti-reflection Facet Coatings and Etch Facets for Lasers (T1.4)
Project Leader: Dr. Peter Mascher, McMaster University

The research within the foregoing projects was organized so that, collectively, the results of the joint undertaking would achieve the objective of Theme 1, as outlined in the foregoing Theme Overview provided on this web site.

When this research program was started, the desired laser chips were not available in the marketplace and had to be produced in the university laboratory for ISIS research needs.  At the same time, industrial researchers were pursuing the same goal, which resulted in commercial laser light sources becoming available in 1997.  As a result, ISIS Canada decided to discontinue certain aspects of Theme 1 research and amalgamate the rest with continuing Theme 2.  Commencing April 1, 1998, all projects in Theme 1 were deemed completed and the theme terminated.  Drs. Simmons and Thompson continued certain aspects of their research programs as part of Theme 2, under the direction of Dr. R. Tennyson.

The achievements within Theme 1 by the spring of 1997 were as follows:

• State-of-the-art 1550-nm lasers had been fabricated, tested and found to be most useful for civil engineering applications.

• Wavelength sensitivity of a quantum-well waveguide photo-diode had been demonstrated.

• Angle-facet lasers were constructed.

• Split-electrode lasers were fabricated and characterized.

• High-speed wavelength tuning and sampling was achieved.

• The parameters for effective reactive ion etching were determined.

• A wavelength monitor with resolution was achieved.

Completed Research 1995 to 2006