Gradient-Index Micro-Optic Glasses Based On Ion-Exchange Techniques

Due to unique characteristics of gradient-index glass rod as a micro-lens, a variety of micro-optic devices for communication use and new optical components for photo-copiers and facsmile machines have been developed. Ion-exchange techniques which were used to the fabrication of gradient-index micro-lens have also been applied to the fabrication of such new micro-optic glasses as 2-dimensional matrix lenses and optical waveguide circuits. This paper reviews the fabrication processes and applications of gradient-index micro-optic glasses based on ion-exchange techniques.