Nonlinear Surface Polaritons.
Abstract
Analytical and numerical (the Beam Propagation Method) techniques were used to analyze a variety of nonlinear optics phenomena at surfaces and in thin film waveguides. A number of new device possibilities for all optical signal processing were identified. New nonlinear guided-wave phenomena have been predicted, of which many are of interest for potential experimental and device applications. The highlights are: (1) The analytical solutions for highly nonlinear waves guided by single interfaces and thin films extended to realistic media which exhibit saturation in the optically induced index change. (2) Beam propagation techniques used to find the stability of nonlinear guided waves for the first time. Furthermore, non-stationary nonlinear guided waves were found, also for the first time. (3) The generation of solitons predicted for nonlinear waveguides excited at high powers. Applications to optical limiters and optical logic via the exchange of solitons identified. The effects of non-ideal excitation conditions, waveguide absorption, and index saturation investigated. (4) Analytical and numerical solutions for nonlinear TM-polarized guided waves obtained for the first time. (5) The feasibility of light-by-light modulation using nonlinear guided waves of both polarizations predicted. (6) The origin of bistability in nonlinear prism couplers fully explained for the first time. (7) The response of nonlinear directional couplers to very high excitation calculated, resulting in unexpected steady-state conditions.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Dec 15, 1987
- Accession Number
- ADA191046
Entities
People
- G. I. Stegeman
Organizations
- University of Arizona