Polarization-independent optical directional coupler based on slot waveguides

A polarization-independent optical directional coupler based on slot waveguides is proposed and analyzed by using rigorous full-vectorial analysis methods based on a finite-element scheme. Properly choosing materials and structural parameters makes the coupling length for quasi-TE modes become equal to that for quasi-TM modes. Tolerances to operating wavelength and structural parameters are also discussed. The proposed coupler can be used for highly integrated optical circuits without polarization diversity schemes. (c) 2006 Optical Society of America.