Optofluidic variable optical attenuator

A variable optical attenuator was designed and fabricated based on optofluidic technology. Desired optical attenuation was achieved due to the refractive index modulation of the fluid. Here fluid used is a nematic liquid crystal which possesses high molecular order together with fluidity. The methodology adopted is to change the molecular alignment of the fluid by allowing it to flow in a rectangular channel with suitable flow rate. The effect of absorption and scattering from the liquid is also demonstrated for the selected wavelength.