Mid - IR optimized multi layer hollow waveguides

Several groups worldwide investigate hollow waveguides for IR radiation extensively. These waveguides can transmit well laser radiation however they have some serious drawbacks such as high sensitivity to bending and wavelength. A potential solution to this problem is to use the one dimensional photonic crystal theory, i.e. to develop a multi layer waveguide. According to this theory it is possible to get close to 100% reflectivity for large angles of incidence and for a wide interval of wavelengths. Based on this idea we have produced such a hollow glass waveguide, with four inner layers made of alternating Ag and AgI layers. Some preliminary spectral measurements have shown low attenuation for an optimized IR wavelength range, which encouraged us to pursue the research in this direction.