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Optically-induced molecular reorientation in nematic liquid crystals and nonlinear optical processes in the nanoseconds regime

Journal Article · · IEEE J. Quant. Electron.; (United States)
The authors present a detailed theoretical analysis and experimental study of purely optically-induced nematic axis reorientation and the associated nonlinear optical processes such as self-phase modulations and optical switching. It is shown that under a sufficiently intense layer field (--100 MW/cm/sup 2/), nematic liquid crystals will respond in the nanosecond regime. Single nanosecond laser pulse self-phase modulation and intensity switching effects are observed. The magnitude and dynamics of the response are in agreement with theoretical expectations. Optical power limiting and switching efforts associated with self-phase modulations are also demonstrated.
Research Organization:
Dept. of Electrical Engineering, The Pennsylvania State Univ., University Park, PA 16802
OSTI ID:
6719616
Journal Information:
IEEE J. Quant. Electron.; (United States), Journal Name: IEEE J. Quant. Electron.; (United States) Vol. QE-23:2; ISSN IEJQA
Country of Publication:
United States
Language:
English

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