Efficient Bragg-like operation of intracavity low-efficiency plane gratings

Abstract : The diffraction regime of a thin grating inserted in a Fabry-Perot cavity is investigated. Our calculations show that, at Bragg incidence, a single diffraction order can be selectively enhanced, giving rise to a very efficient Bragg-like diffraction regime. The optimization of the device is studied as a function of the resonator thickness and finesse and the grating position inside the Fabry-Perot cavity. The angular and wavelength selectivities are also investigated. The device could be easily integrated and would be very useful for optical signal processing applications.