Photonics, Vol. 13, Pages 197: Processing Maps and Nano-IR Diagnostics of Type I Modifications in Mid-IR Germanate-Based Optical Glass

Photonics doi: 10.3390/photonics13020197

Authors:
Paul Mathieu
Nadezhda Shchedrina
Florence De La Barrière
Guillaume Druart
Matthieu Lancry

Mid-IR flat/integrated optics require low-loss, programmable phase control. We investigate femtosecond laser direct writing (FLDW) in aluminogermanate glass (Corning 9754), first mapping the processing landscape to delineate no modification, Type I index increase, and spatial broadening regimes. We then operate in a non-accumulating regime that provides a broad, stable writing window. Quantitative-phase microscopy yields Δφ and a monotonic Δn with optically limited cross-sections compatible with low loss. Transmission spectroscopy shows high values (about 90% up to 4 µm) and no additional absorptions across the near-IR and mid-IR range. FTIR reveals a redshift of the Ge–O–(Ge/Al) stretching envelope from ≈1 µJ, correlating with the high Δn onset. s-SNOM at 925 cm−1 resolves the written line as reduced near-field amplitude and decreased phase, confirming a local complex permittivity change consistent with densification-driven Type I tracks. Together, these results define practical conditions for on-demand mid-IR flat/GRIN/Fresnel optics by FLDW in this commercial mid-IR transparent glass.

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Paul Mathieu www.mdpi.com