School of PhysicsNonlinear Optics

Dr Malgosia Kaczmarek, Dr Changxi Yang, Dr Sveta Tatarkova

The research interests of Nonlinear Optics group concentrate on fundamental characterisation of new nonlinear materials and novel applications of infrared-sensitive photorefractive crystals and waveguides.

Photorefractive materials form an important part of today's optical technology. One of their most attractive features is their high nonlinearity, which can be induced with low power densities of light. We investigate the propagation and high amplification of light in rhodium doped photorefractive materials to establish optimum range of doping that enhances their performance with low energy infrared light instead of visible light. In collaboration with Imperial College we are finalising a model to characterise Rh:BaTiO₃ material.

The major part of our present research concerns configurations that fully utilise the capability of photorefractive materials to efficiently amplify light. A photorefractive ring cavity offers the attractive possibility of using it for sensing applications for the detection of trace species and pollutants. This work is carried out in collaboration with the University of Southampton.

There is a need for new photosensitive materials that are as efficient and highly nonlinear as conventional photorefractive materials, but more versatile and a great deal cheaper. We have therefore started working on advanced photosensitive materials, such as recently discovered photorefractive liquid crystals and their applications in optical telecommunication.