| This project is aimed to develop a novel concept for micro- and nano-scale dynamic and active photonic components based on metal/polymer structures. The innovation lies in utilizing unique properties of metallic systems that allow optical and electric signals to be transmitted along the same metallic circuitry.This approach will provide a route to novel integrated micro-optical devices and components combining photonics and electronics on the same chip. The target is to establish a new technological platform and create the technology for the integratable nanophotonic components with enhanced functionality for optical signal processing, on-electronic-chip optical interconnects and optical broadband applications.We plan to achieve this on a single material system using polymer-based guides on a metal surface to confine and manipulate surface plasmon waves on a sub-wavelength scale. The passive, dynamic and active photonic devices will be fabricated and their performance characterized and tested. Examples of electrically controlled nanophotonic devices (wavelength selective components, integrated power monitors and variable optical attenuators) will be demonstrated.The proposed technology has a unique potential using its intrinsic capability of carrying an optical information as well as control electronic and/or optical signals in the same circuitry without a need of separate electronic and optical circuits. PLASMOCOM will create new critical knowledge on fabrication and performance of dynamic and active nanophotonic devices, demonstrate new devices with enhanced parameters (low fabrication cost, smaller size, enhanced dynamic and active functionality with lower electric consumption power and low intensity of control light, convergence of electronic and photonic circuitry), and will contribute to Europe's competitiveness and leadership in miniaturization of photonic components and integrated photonic circuits in order to establish it as a world market leader. |