Alternative to Semiconductor Optical Amplifiers (SOAs) -- ?

In mid-November (2011), Researchers at the University of Twente’s MESA+ Research Institute (The Netherlands) reported they have developed a material capable of optical amplifications that are comparable to those achieved by the best, currently available semiconductor optical amplifiers. The researchers expect that this material will accelerate data communication and, ultimately, provide an alternative to short distance data communication (at the μm-cm scale).

The Researchers claim that this material consists of thin crystalline layers whose optical properties were specially designed for the optical circuits found on chips. The researchers can fine-tune the properties of these thin crystalline layers by changing their composition. Using a clever trick, they were able to embed much higher concentrations of optically active Ytterbium ions (Ytterbium is a rare-earth element) in the crystal. In this way, they have boosted the optical amplification of currently available rare-earth-doped materials by more than one hundredfold. The Researchers claim that this will ultimately pave the way for faster and cheaper optical data communication.

The MESA+ Institute for Nanotechnology is one of the largest nanotechnology research institutes in the world, delivering competitive and successful high quality research. It uses a unique structure, which unites scientific disciplines, and builds fruitful international cooperation to excel in science and education.

MESA+, Institute for Nanotechnology, is part of the University of Twente, having intensive cooperation with various research groups within the University. The institute employs 500 people of whom 275 are PhD’s or postdocs. With its NanoLab facilities the institute holds 1250 m2 of cleanroom space and state of the art research equipment. MESA+ has an integral turnover of 45 million euro per year of which 60% is acquired in competition from external sources.

MESA+ has been the breeding place for more than 40 high-tech start-ups to date. A targeted program for cooperation with small and medium-sized enterprises is specially set up for start-ups. MESA+ offers the use of its extensive facilities and cleanroom space under friendly conditions. Start-ups and MESA+ work intensively together to promote transfer of knowledge.