Fraunhofer Institute for Reliability and Microintegration IZM
Fraunhofer Institute for Reliability and Microintegration IZM

Design and manufacturing of planar polymer optical waveguides

image - SEM micrograph
© Fraunhofer IZM
SEM micrograph before overcladding with low refractive index polymer
image - Optical micrograph
© Fraunhofer IZM
Optical micrograph of laminated optical foils in between FR4 base materials

Polymeric materials are essential components of modern and cost-effective microoptic and opto-electronic systems. Their spectral transparency and reliability are optimal for certain applications. Fraunhofer IZM brings more than 20 years of expertise in design, manufacturing and application specific characterisation to the benefit of its partners and customers.

Features:

  • Optical waveguides, single-mode and multi-mode
  • Based on commercial and customer specific epoxy and hybrid polymer materials
  • On wafer and panel level
  • Package and PCB integration
  • Optical interfaces
  • Characterisation
  • Reliability and optical system test

Application:

  • Data communication sub-systems
  • Integrated (micro-fluidic, MEMS) sensor systems
  • Optical fiber coupled systems