Theoretical study of microfiber resonator devices exploiting a phase shift

Phase shifts within microfiber resonators can be exploited to demonstrate compact and fast-responding devices. Two examples, a sensor and a bistable device, where the origins of the phase shift are fundamentally different, are investigated. In the sensor the phase change originates from the change of refractive index of the medium surrounding the microfiber ring. This is a linear mechanism which translates into a change of resonance wavelength. Calculations of a silica microfiber ring immersed in an aqueous solution and operating at a wavelength of 1550 nm show that with a fiber 550 nm in diameter the sensitivity approaches a maximal value of about 1137 nm/RIU. In contrast to the sensitivit…