Low-loss single-mode integrated waveguides in soda-lime glass

Low-loss single-mode optical waveguide fabrication process in extra-white soda-lime glass is demonstrated. Waveguiding structures are formed in bulk substrates employing femtosecond laser writing technology. The combination of a slit beam shaping method and a multiscan fabrication process enables writing of waveguides with a well-defined symmetric cross-sectional profile. Fabricated waveguides exhibit 0.86 dB/cm propagation loss for 800-nm wavelength. Bending loss in the waveguides is addressed experimentally and compared with a model for radiation loss.