Unlocking the Mid-Infrared - Toward Scalable Photonic Integration for Sensing and Communication

In this work, we present and discuss new results obtained during the development of the MIRPIC photonic integration platform, designed for the mid-infrared spectral range. The platform combines germanium-on-silicon (Ge-on-Si) technology for passive waveguiding circuits with active components, such as quantum and interband cascade lasers (QCLs and ICLs), as well as antimonide-based superlattice detectors, optimized for integration with the passive circuits. The platform’s potential will be illustrated using the first technology demonstrators targeting free-space communication and sensing. Additionally, the major challenges will be discussed from the perspective of scaling up and industrialization potential. Acknowledgments: This work received support from the National Center for Research and Development through projects MIRPIC (TECHMATSTRATEG-III/0026/2019-00), HyperPIC (FENG.02.10-IP.01-0005/23, IPCEI ME/CT) and FSOC (FENG.01.01-IP.01-A0MR/24-00), and from the EU Horizon Europe under GA #101213727, Chips Joint Undertaking.