Polarization-independent variable optical attenuator employing dye-doped (polymer/liquid-crystal) composite film for 1.5-µm optical fiber communication

Polarization-independent optical attenuation at 1.5 μm was demonstrated by using a dichroic dye-doped (polymer/liquid-crystal) composite film. The maximum attenuation of 17.1 dB was obtained when an aperture structure was introduced to block scattered light.