Bismuth-doped fiber lasers for optical communications and sensing**

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Current optical networks, which continue to experience increased traffic, are reaching a 'capacity crunch' caused by the limited gain spectrum of widely deployed Er-doped fiber for optical amplification. Considerable attention is now being paid to the wavelength range of 1600- 1800 nm, which lies between the Er-doped and Tm-doped fiber gain bands, due to its potential as a new transmission window for optical interconnections and communications. At the same time, the 1700 nm band is in the transparency window of living tissues and is interesting for sensing and instrumentation, particularly microscopy of biological tissues. Recently, high-germanium silicate active Bismuth-doped fibers (BDFs) have been developed to provide optical gain in the spectral region from 1650-1800 nm. Given the relatively nascent stage of BDF technology, significant research and development is necessary to bring BDF lasers to market.****OZ Optics Ltd. (www.ozoptics.com) is a leading global supplier of fiber optic products for next-generation optical networks as well as fiber optic sensor systems. This project unites the interests of researchers at McGill University with OZ Optics to develop a wide range of BDF lasers, including those based on CW or pulsed (Q-switched and mode-locked) operation as well as multi-wavelength output. These lasers should find application for a number of applications in optical communications, sensing, and instrumentation and will expand OZ Optics' product portfolio. ****The project will also provide excellent training for 2 trainees to develop technical skills that will serve them well for employment in the broad photonics industry.****