Graphene for Photonics and Optoelectronics Applications

Graphene’s properties make it ideal for next-generation optoelectronics and optical communications systems. Its excellent electrical properties and broadband optical absorption are highly suited for high-performance optoelectronic devices, and it can be readily integrated with silicon photonic systems. In addition, its flexibility, robustness, and environmental stability have the potential to enable completely new devices. 

Graphene-based technologies are proving integral to the new generation of communications, such as 5G  - enabling high performance optical communication systems through ultra-fast and compact optoelectronic devices. From lasers and optical switches, to wireless communication and energy harvesting, graphene will play an important role within the optoelectronics field.

Graphene has proved to be a key enabler for innovation in this field, because it operates at an extremely broad spectral range, which means it can interact with many different 'colours' and wavelengths of light. Moreover, it exhibits both electro-absorption and electro-refraction of light and is compatible with existing silicon photonics. This makes graphene ideal for optical and data communication components, such as transceivers, modulators and photodetectors.

Torkel Nord Bjärneman, Business Developer for the optoelectronics and photonics space within the Graphene Flagship