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Small third-order optical-nonlinearity detection free of laser parameters
Anatoly Sherman1, Erik Benkler, Harald R Telle
1Physikalisch-Technische Bundesanstalt (PTB), Braunschweig, Germany. anatoly.sherman@ptb.de
Optics Letters
|December 26, 2008
Summary
We developed a new, adaptable method for precisely measuring third-order optical nonlinearities in waveguides. This technique references known bulk materials, ensuring accuracy by eliminating laser pulse variations and enabling detection of even tiny nonlinearities.
Area of Science:
- Nonlinear optics
- Materials science
- Photonics
Background:
- Accurate measurement of optical nonlinearities is crucial for developing advanced photonic devices.
- Existing methods can be sensitive to laser pulse parameters, limiting precision.
- Characterizing nonlinear optical properties of various materials, including waveguides, is an ongoing challenge.
Purpose of the Study:
- To present a novel and versatile method for the sensitive measurement of nonresonant third-order optical nonlinearities.
- To establish a robust measurement technique that is independent of laser pulse characteristics.
- To enable the quantification of very small nonlinear optical effects in different waveguide structures.
Main Methods:
- A heterodyne detection scheme for the generated mixing product.
- Referencing the measurement against a bulk sample with well-characterized nonlinear optical properties.
- Utilizing a waveguide-based experimental setup for nonlinear optical measurements.
Main Results:
- Demonstrated a versatile method for sensitive measurement of third-order optical nonlinearities.
- Successfully ruled out the influence of laser pulse parameters (duration, contrast, spectral phase/amplitude).
- Enabled measurement of extremely small third-order optical nonlinearities, including those in air-filled short waveguides.
Conclusions:
- The developed method offers high sensitivity and versatility for characterizing optical nonlinearities in waveguides.
- The referencing technique ensures reliable measurements by mitigating laser parameter uncertainties.
- This approach opens possibilities for studying nonlinear optical properties in a wider range of materials and structures.
