Optical waveguide devices modulated by surface acoustic waves

This paper reviews the application of coherent acoustic phonons in the form of piezoelectrically-generated surface acoustic waves to control the response of integrated photonic acousto-optic waveguide structures. We first address the fundamental properties of the acoustic fields in piezoelectric materials as well as the piezoelectric generation of surface acoustic waves using interdigital transducers. The mechanism responsible for the interaction between light and the acoustic modes in the photonic waveguide structures and the modulation of the response of the devices is carefully reviewed. Next, we discuss the most important developments in the field of integrated acousto-optical device applications, with focus on devices built upon three-dimensional optical waveguides. Finally, prospects for acousto-optic device applications by use of surface acoustic waves are summarized.