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Observation of nonlinear surface waves in modulated waveguide arrays
Xinyuan Qi1, Ivan L Garanovich, Zhiyong Xu
1Nonlinear Physics Centre and Laser Physics Centre, Research School of Physics and Engineering,Australian National University, Canberra, ACT 0200, Australia. qixycn@gmail.com
Optics Letters
|September 17, 2009
Summary
We demonstrate nonlinear surface waves in modulated waveguide arrays with defects. Light intensity changes enable beam switching between waveguides due to nonlinear coupling.
Area of Science:
- Nonlinear optics
- Waveguide optics
- Materials science
Background:
- Nonlinear surface waves are crucial for optical devices.
- Waveguide arrays offer tunable optical properties.
- Surface defects can localize or guide light.
Purpose of the Study:
- To theoretically and experimentally investigate nonlinear surface waves.
- To explore beam switching phenomena in modulated waveguide arrays.
- To analyze the role of surface defects and self-defocusing nonlinearity.
Main Methods:
- Theoretical modeling of nonlinear surface waves.
- Experimental fabrication of LiNbO(3) waveguide arrays with surface defects.
- Optical characterization of beam propagation and switching behavior.
Main Results:
- Observed nonlinear surface waves at the edge of modulated waveguide arrays.
- Demonstrated intensity-dependent beam switching to different output waveguides.
- Confirmed nonlinear coupling between linear surface modes.
Conclusions:
- Nonlinear surface waves in defect-engineered waveguide arrays enable optical switching.
- Self-defocusing nonlinearity plays a key role in the observed phenomena.
- Fabricated LiNbO(3) structures are suitable for advanced photonic applications.
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