Application of low phonon-energy glasses for optical amplification at 1.3µm

Abstract

We report on recent progress towards the application of both mixed cadmium halides and sulphide-based glasses as host materials for a Pr³⁺-doped 1.3 micron optical fiber amplifier. Both of these materials offer the potential for higher gains than can be currently achieved in a Pr³⁺-doped ZBLAN fiber. Fundamental glass properties, including optical and thermal characteristics, are compared. Losses of these glasses in fiber form have been estimated and spectroscopic measurements are summarized. From these studies we show that quantum efficiencies over an order of magnitude higher than those demonstrated with Pr³⁺-doped ZBLAN amplifiers are in principle obtainable. Measured efficiencies of 11% and 52% for the Cd halide and Ga sulphide, respectively, are achieved, while 25% and 80% are predicted. Numerical modelling allows comparison of the expected amplifier performance. Thermal analysis has identified the challenges which remain for the drawing of single mode fibers and the results of preliminary fiber drawing trials are described. The relative merits of each of the various glasses are considered and the challenges before a practical amplifier is achieved are outlined.

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ORCID for Daniel W. Hewak: orcid.org/0000-0002-2093-5773

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