E!113977, FIFU, Nyfors Teknologi AB
| Reference number | |
| Coordinator | Nyfors Teknologi AB |
| Funding from Vinnova | SEK 4 960 000 |
| Project duration | February 2020 - May 2024 |
| Status | Completed |
| Venture | Eurostars |
Important results from the project
We wanted to weld optical fibers to single photon detectors. For this, we have developed new processing equipment for welding fibers into arrays with high precision. This was intended for production of photon detectors at a much lower cost and higher quality than with current manufacturing processes. This objective has not been met due to incompatible materials. However, the processing equipment has proven to have other uses in micro-optics and photonics.
Expected long term effects
The methods of welding fibers to other optical devices and components have resulted in new business activities, mainly in integrated photonics and micro-optics. Several customers have shown interest in this capability, and we have already completed sales. The results regarding the detector welding have not been what was expected.
Approach and implementation
Our laser welding setup with a CO2 laser that attaches the fiber to the substrate with detectors has worked well with other substrates than silicon. Unfortunately, the silicon substrate has not been possible to replace. Silicon lithography is a very well-developed process that is difficult and expensive to replace. This has not been done within the scope of this project. However, we are satisfied with the new applications of the welding method for other optics.