Wuhan National Laboratory for Optoelectronics and School of Optical and Electronic Information, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan 430074, Hubei, China
Meng Huang
Optoelectronics Research Centre, University of Southampton, Southampton SO17 1BJ, United Kingdom
Shiyu Sun
Optoelectronics Research Centre, University of Southampton, Southampton SO17 1BJ, United Kingdom
Dong Wu
Optoelectronics Research Centre, University of Southampton, Southampton SO17 1BJ, United Kingdom
Zhiwei Yan
Wuhan National Laboratory for Optoelectronics and School of Optical and Electronic Information, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan 430074, Hubei, China
Haonan Ren
Optoelectronics Research Centre, University of Southampton, Southampton SO17 1BJ, United Kingdom
Anna C. Peacock
Optoelectronics Research Centre, University of Southampton, Southampton SO17 1BJ, United Kingdom
Silicon core fibers (SCFs) offer an exciting opportunity to harness the nonlinear functionality of the semiconductor material within the excellent waveguiding properties of optical fiber systems. Over the past two decades, these fibers have evolved from a research curiosity into established components for use across a wide range of photonic applications. This article provides a comprehensive overview of the evolution of the SCFs, with a focus on the development of the fabrication and post-processing procedures that have helped unlock the nonlinear optical potential of this new technology. As well as reviewing the timeline of advancements in nonlinear performance, a perspective will be provided on the current challenges and future opportunities for in-fiber nonlinear silicon systems.
