Low loss GaAs optical waveguides

To realize an optical integrated circuit, various losses in the semiconductor waveguide such as absorption loss, waveguide loss, bending loss, and coupling loss, have to be minimized. Theoretical and experimental considerations for the reduction of these losses have been presented. A propagation loss of less than 0.5 dB/cm has been observed for a well-designed GaAs ridge waveguide. Moreover its coupling loss with a polarization-maintaining optical fiber decreased below 1.5 dB.