Multifunctional Waveguide Design: Supercontinuum Generation, Modulation, and Sensing with Photonic Crystal Arrays

Waveguides, with their ability to control electromagnetic wave propagation, underpin diverse technologies requiring precise light manipulation. Supercontinuum (SC) generation within waveguides offers broadband light sources vital for advanced imaging, sensing, and spectroscopy. This work addresses the need for highly efficient and versatile SC sources by exploring advanced waveguide designs. A focus is placed on materials like chalcogenide glasses, known for their superior nonlinear properties, and planar configurations enabling on-chip integration. We present a novel photonic crystal-enhanced waveguide, tailored for operation within the telecommunications wavelength range. Designed for supercontinuum generation, modulation, and sensing, this innovation offers a pathway towards multifunctional optical devices with far-reaching applications in communications and medicine. Additionally, we propose a suspended-core As$_2$Se$_3$ tapered rib waveguide configuration. Simulations demonstrate a broad SC spectrum ($1-1.6$ \textmu m) from this compact design, addressing challenges associated with fabrication complexity and loss. These results contribute to the ongoing development of more efficient and adaptable SC sources.