Optimizing an integrated waveguide modulator for sensitive low-frequency alternating-current electric-field sensors

TLDR: In this article, an optimized segmented slot waveguide was used as the core of a sensor to determine the sensor features that produce useful frequency responses and sensitivity for low-frequency alternating-current (AC) electric-field sensors.

Abstract: The use of integrated waveguide modulators is a common technique in electric-field sensing. However, the distortion in the modulated signal caused by high half-voltage Vπ and the difficulty in obtaining low-frequency responses are challenging issues for the use of low-frequency alternating-current (AC) electric-field sensors. This study investigates the use of an optimized segmented slot waveguide as the core of a sensor to determine the sensor features that produce useful frequency responses and sensitivity. The segmented slot waveguide is optimized in terms of periodicity and segment width to produce low Vπ and electrical bandwidth before testing the sensor sensitivity. The results show that reducing the segment width achieves a low Vπ of 0.32 V and a very low electrical bandwidth of 4.3 kHz. Our study provides evidence of the feasibility of using a segmented slot waveguide as the primary element for highly sensitive, low-frequency AC electric-field sensors.