Multiple Mode Couplings in a Waveguide Array for Broadband Near-Zero Dispersion and Supercontinuum Generation

We achieve a broadband near-zero dispersion in a thin silicon nitride waveguide array at near-infrared utilizing the multiple mode couplings. Different orders of modes are coupled at four different wavelengths, generating eight zero dispersion wavelengths (ZDWs). The broadband near-zero dispersion profile within 90 ps/nm/km is achieved, spanning over the spectral range of 1350-1900 nm. Using the dispersion engineered waveguide array, an octave-spanning supercontinuum is numerically generated with a pump of 100 fs and 200 pJ. The concept of using multiple mode couplings to obtain broadband near-zero dispersion can be applied to other spectral regimes and material platforms as well, by engineering the structural parameters to shift the positions of the ZDWs.

Automated summary

In this study, a broadband near-zero dispersion was achieved in a thin silicon nitride waveguide array at near-infrared using multiple mode couplings, covering a spectral range of 1350-1900 nm. By engineering the dispersion of the waveguide array, an octave-spanning supercontinuum was numerically generated with a pump of 100 fs and 200 pJ. The concept of obtaining broadband near-zero dispersion through multiple mode couplings can be applied to other spectral regimes and material platforms by adjusting structural parameters to shift the positions of zero dispersion wavelengths.