Photorefractivity and Nonlinear Electro-Optical Wave Mixings in Liquid Crystals
Abstract
This research program was aimed at gaining a complete fundamental understanding of recently discovered nonlinear electro-optical effects in liquid crystalline systems, and exploring their applications in holographic storage, optical wave-mixing and phase conjugation beam/image processing and modulation devices. In particular, the mechanisms and dynamics of photo-charge generation, space charge fields and the resultant refractive index change and holographic grating formation in dye- and fullerene doped-nematic liquid crystal have been quantitatively investigated. This work has established such liquid crystalline materials as among the most sensitive nonlinear optical materials for performing holographic storage, wave-mixing, beam and imaging processing, and switching processes. Basic understanding of the photophysics, electro-dynamics and electro-optical properties of these liquid crystalline material systems will be important for related fields such as electro-optical flat panelled displays and imaging processing, and new material development. Investigation was made of nonlinear fiber arrays made by filling capillary arrays with liquid crystals in their isotropic phase, and demonstrated highly efficient optical image/beam switching and intensity/power controlling processes.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Jul 01, 1999
- Accession Number
- ADA369689
Entities
People
- Iam-choon Khoo
Organizations
- Pennsylvania State University