Modeling optical amplification in Er/Yb-codoped integrated Bragg gratings

Abstract

Bragg gratings inscribed in active waveguides combine very efficient reflective properties with the amplifying capability of rare-earths, which may lead to large amplification and lasing performance. However, the response of these photonic structures highly depends on the grating parameters and working conditions, so modeling their behavior and dependences becomes fundamental. In this work, a numerical method has been implemented to simulate the optical power propagation along an Er/Yb-codoped integrated waveguide Bragg grating as a function of its most relevant operational parameters. The results obtained show the optimal conditions to maximize its performance as a highly amplifying reflector, but also its capability as a monolithic laser. In addition, the modeling results adequately match experimental values measured in fs-laser written structures in Er/Yb-codoped phosphate glass, supporting the accuracy of the numerical method developed and its usefulness for further optimizing these promising photonic structures.