Polarization properties of active semiconductor micro-ring structures

Abstract

Polarization properties of active semiconductor micro-ring structures are studied theoretically emphasizing on the prospects for equalising the structure response for the two polarizations. The evaluation is performed with the help of a scheme for polarization insensitive operation of active MR that, unlike previous approaches, addresses both the waveguide and the heterostructure polarization properties. A self-consistent rate equation model is used to assess the spectral response of the polarization insensitive structures. Based on these findings the inherent spectral limitations for polarization insensitive performance imposed by the highly resonant nature of micro-ring are discussed and compared to that of conventional structures.