Thermally-actuated reflection mode asymmetric Fabry-Perot modulator utilizing a thin transparent elastomeric film

This letter describes a thermally-actuated reflection mode asymmetric Fabry-Perot modulator that consists of a thin transparent elastomeric film bounded by partially and highly reflecting metallic mirrors. The thickness of the transparent layer determines the intensity of light reflected from the modulator; changes in its thickness modulate the reflectivity. Electrical current flowing through the highly reflecting mirror provides a source of heat for controlling, by thermal expansion, the thickness of the elastomeric film. Modulators with this design show contrast ratios > 15 dB and insertion losses <0.3 dB. (C) 1998 American Institute of Physics.