Wavelength demultiplexing by beam shifting using a dielectric stack as a one-dimensional photonic crystal

We have demonstrated wavelength separation using a dielectric stack, and suggest that this fundamental property of one-dimensional photonic crystals can be exploited to create a compact, highly dispersive device for WDM. In contrast to previously suggested devices, this one-dimensional structure is simple and inexpensive to fabricate and is made from readily available materials. Additionally, because of the inherent scalability of photonic crystal properties, such a device could be designed for use at any wavelength of interest. We note also that it is not essential that the device be periodic. Many other layered structures with substantial group velocity dispersion would appear to be possible