An Open-Source Multi-functional Testing Platform for Optical Phase Change Materials

Abstract

Owing to their unique tunable optical properties, chalcogenide phase change materials are increasingly being investigated for optics and photonics applications. However, in situ characterization of their phase transition characteristics is a capability that remains inaccessible to many researchers. In this article, we introduce a multi-functional silicon microheater platform capable of in situ measurement of structural, kinetic, optical, and thermal properties of these materials. The platform can be fabricated leveraging industry-standard silicon foundry manufacturing processes. We fully open-sourced this platform, including complete hardware design and associated software codes.