Perfluorocyclobutyl (PFCB) Polymers for High Speed Electronically Tunable Fiber-Optic Filter

This Phase I STTR proposal will combine commercial optical polymer technology from Tetramer Technologies, L.L.C. (Tetramer) and state of electro-optic chromophore advances, with Prof. Greg Nordin at the University of Alabama at Huntsville (UAH) and their expertise in design and fabrication of initial prototypes of compact electronically tunable fiber-optic filters. Tetramer, Clemson, and UAH researchers have enjoyed a rich and fruitful collaboration since 2001 through multi-collaborative academic programs primarily sponsored by DARPA. Novel electro-optic (EO) PFCB copolymers are unique for their low loss, tunable optical and thermal properties, and unmatched solution or solventless processability, which make them suitable for ultra fast optical filters. Specifically, the ultimate target for Phase I combined with Phase II will be the development and fabrication of optical fiber compatible tunable waveguide filters which can enable the realization of a low loss, selective receiver. During Phase I, prototype devices will be designed and tested in collaboration with the Prof. Greg Nordin at the University of Alabama in Huntsville (UAH). Following successful fabrication and testing, Tetramer and UAH plan to partner with suitable device manufacturers for commercialization in Phase II.