Active planar lightwave devices for optical signal processing

Time-domain numerical analysis of nonlinear propagation in Slow-Wave-Structures, focused on the interplay of enhanced third-order nonlinearity with chromatic dispersion has been carried on. In dependence on the operating conditions, a tunable optical oscillator/pulse train generator and an optical limiter have been designed. Morphological inspection and functional characterization at λ=1.5 μm of fibre-optic coupled PMMA optical waveguides, containing Er –doped nanoclusters, was performed, as contribution to first demonstration of net amplification in PMMA planar waveguide devices in the third communication window. An experimental research activity on nanostructured ordered porous alumina films of good optical quality was also started.