Optical phased array based on electrically tunable plasmonic nanoantennas

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This project proposes an optical phased array based on electrically-tunable plasmonic nanoantennas for optical beam steering. There are 3 objectives: (i) to model and design nanoantennas that can be tuned electrically and assembled into a phased array; (ii) to develop nanofabrication processes and to fabricate the arrays, and (iii) to characterise and demonstrate the arrays for optical beam steering. These objectives will be met, initially through the design and modelling of concepts for electrically-tunable plasmonic nanoantennas, then through implementation of arrays of nanoantennas by applying wafer-scale nanofabrication processes using standard semiconductor fabrication tools in a cleanroom setting. The arrays will be tested in a set-up constructed using commercially-available components, custom-machined parts, and software designed and written for array control, data acquisition and processing. Operation of the arrays will be demonstrated by application to beam-steering, initially in one dimension, then, ultimately, in two dimensions. Operating free-space wavelengths to be considered include 1550 nm, which is of interest to telecommunications applications, and 900 nm, which is of interest to Lidar applications. Upon completion of the project, the outcomes, consisting of the technology, its embodiments in the form of optical phased arrays, and the associated electronic control protocols will be transferred to the industrial partner. The benefits to Canadian industry include the provision of a new optical phased array technology for beam steering applications, suitable for optical switching in optical fibre networks or scanning Lidar applications in the automotive sector. The highly-qualified personnel (HQP) formed through this project will develop skills that are highly valued within industry and academia.