Nanoparticle Composites

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Inexpensive and Processable Polymer Magneto-Optic Nanoparticle Composites for Faraday Rotation: Plastic Garnet Optical Isolators and Sensors Tech ID: UA19-137 Invention: This invention includes methods and materials for producing high Verdet constant composite materials. Uses polymers as an inexpensive substrate in which certain types of nanoparticles are embedded. The invention includes detailed processes of how to embed the nanoparticles and prevent the nanoparticles from aggregating in the polymer. The result is an inexpensive material with a high Verdet constant, which can induce rotation of polarized light (faraday rotation) under the presence of a directed magnetic field. The amount of high Verdet material required is significantly reduced, enabling smaller optical components which can be more closely integrated into optical systems. Background: Materials with a high Verdet constant are used in optical components for lasers and telecommunications. These materials are known as “Faraday Rotators” due to their property of rotating the polarization of light when placed in a directed magnetic field, and are used in optical rotators, optical isolators and optical circulators. For example, high-powered lasers need optical isolators to prevent light reentering the laser possibly causing damage to the laser. The most commonly used high Verdet constant materials are Terbium Gallium Garnets (TGG). These materials are expensive as well as somewhat difficult to manufacture. Other options exist but are also generally expensive and/or are difficult to manufacture.