On the properties of single-mode optical resonators.

We study the quality factor of single-mode optical whispering gallery mode resonators using finite element method simulations, with a particular focus on the photonic belt resonator geometry. We experimentally observe a large difference between the quality factors of TM and TE modes in such resonators. Examining radiative losses, we conclude that the TM fundamental mode of single-mode resonators can have geometry related radiative losses caused by mode hybridization and coupling that limits their achievable quality factor. However, TE modes are free from mode hybridization radiative losses. This leads to much higher achievable Q factors for TE modes, only limited by fabrication and material quality. We experimentally observed photonic belt resonator quality factors on the order of one billion for TE modes, higher than in any other single mode optical resonator of similar dimensions.