Programmable anisotropic soft matrix enabling robust active waveguide film

Abstract

In soft matrix, liquid crystals (LCs) enable low-temperature integration of multiple optical modules, owing to their remarkable programmability and anisotropicity. However, achieving efficient coupling of light source to waveguide remains challenging, primarily due to their refractive index mismatches and alignment deviations. Herein, we developed a robust waveguide film with an integrated active light source, utilizing a laser-dye-doped LC soft matrix, where efficient coupling is achieved by precisely controlling the LC alignment and careful positioning of the external pump spot to induce amplified spontaneous emission within the waveguide. This active waveguide film provides efficient light conduction with optical loss coefficients as low as 0.08 dB/mm. The special design LC arrangement in waveguide enables the manipulation of light propagation direction such as linear propagation and 180° turns. Furthermore, a four-channel equal-power splitter is established for multi-channel light output. This robust active waveguide film device demonstrates remarkable stability under high temperatures, humidity, and harsh chemical environments, along with excellent fatigue resistance. This study lays a solid foundation for the development of optical chips optimized for programmable integrated photonic systems.