Graphene electrodes for lithium-niobate electro-optic devices

We propose and demonstrate the use of graphene electrodes for lithium-niobate electro-optic (EO) devices to exempt the need of incorporating a buffer layer between the waveguide and the electrodes. Using graphene electrodes, our experimental mode converter, based on an EO-generated long-period grating in a LiNbO₃ waveguide, shows a reduction in the half-π voltage by almost three times, compared with the conventional electrode design using metal. With the buffer layer exempted, the device fabrication process is also significantly simplified. The use of graphene electrodes is an effective approach to enhancing the efficiency of EO devices and, at the same time, reducing their fabrication cost.