Ultra-compact On-chip Integrated Spectrometers based on Metasurfaces

Spectrometers are powerful tools that are widely used in chemical and biological sensing, material characterization, and analysis of astronomical objects. The development of a high-resolution on-chip spectrometer could enable compact, versatile, energy-efficient spectroscopy for portable sensors as well as increasing lab-on-chip functionality. However, integrated spectrometers based on gratings require large footprints, while the ones based on holography have limited sensitivity. In this program, we aim to address these critical challenges by leveraging the newly emerging metasurface technology. Our goal is to build an ultra-compact on-chip integrated spectrometer with high resolution, high sensitivity, and a small footprint via integration of optical metasurfaces and integrated waveguides. The spectrometer will be fully compatible with the current photonic integrated circuits. The proposed approach will be validated through electromagnetic theory, full-wave simulations, and experimental demonstration of nanofabricated devices. The technology will allow us to develop miniaturized spectroscopy for a new variety of lab-on-chip applications, integrated photonic sensors, and wearable optical devices.

Enables compact, versatile, energy-efficient spectroscopy (align with SWaP2) Enables portable systems for chemical and biological sensing, material characterization, and analysis of astronomical objects Increases lab-on-chip functionality and reduce the weight and size of the system Enables wearable devices with spectroscopy capability

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