Single-mode TE00-TM00 optical waveguides on SU-8 polymer

The authors present a successful design, realisation and characterisation of single-mode TE00 TM00 rib optical waveguides composed of SU-8 polymer. The linear absorption coefficient of energy alpha(TE-TM) of such rib waveguides have been measured and estimated, respectively, near 0.32 and 0.46 cm(-1) for both optical modes TE00 and TM00. These values yield optical losses of 1.36 and 2.01 dB/cm. Hence, as a crucial step for designing polymer components devoted to sensors applications, the SU-8 polymer appears as a promising candidate for integrated optics with low optical losses. (C) 2003 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.