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Optical bistability in the frustrated-total-reflection optical cavity.

B Bosacchi, L M Narducci

|September 1, 2009

Summary

This study explores nonlinear optical behavior in a frustrated-total-reflection (FTR) optical cavity. Researchers found optical bistability occurs at lower incident power compared to nonlinear interface systems.

Area of Science:

Nonlinear Optics
Optical Cavities
Condensed Matter Physics

Background:

Nonlinear optical phenomena are crucial for advanced photonic devices.
Frustrated-total-reflection (FTR) systems offer unique light-matter interaction possibilities.
Optical bistability is a key effect for optical switching and memory applications.

Purpose of the Study:

To investigate the nonlinear optical behavior of a frustrated-total-reflection (FTR) optical cavity.
To analyze the occurrence of optical bistability within this resonant FTR configuration.
To compare the performance of the FTR cavity with traditional nonlinear interface systems.

Main Methods:

Theoretical analysis of light propagation through an FTR optical cavity.
Inclusion of a nonlinear Kerr medium within the cavity.

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Mathematical modeling to determine conditions for optical bistability.

Main Results:

Optical bistability is demonstrated in the nonlinear FTR optical cavity.
The threshold for optical bistability is found to be lower than in nonlinear interface systems.
The resonant nature of the FTR configuration offers potential advantages.

Conclusions:

The nonlinear FTR optical cavity is a promising platform for achieving optical bistability.
Lower incident power requirements make FTR systems potentially more efficient.
Further exploration of FTR geometries may lead to novel photonic device designs.