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Optical bistability by nonlinear reflection in a polymeric blend

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Abstract

We have analysed the propagation of two continuous-wave Ar+-laser beams travelling in opposite directions in a two-component nonlinear heterogeneous medium (the polymeric blend PMMA-EVA), in a mirror retroreflection geometry. Bistable reflection associated with the laser-induced suppression of scattering is observed. This phenomenon has a thermal origin. Based on light- and heat-transport theory inside the material, a simplified explanation of the experimental evidence is presented, showing the conditions for the onset of optical bistability. Qualitative agreement with our experimental results is found.

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Authors and Affiliations

  1. Dipartimento di Scienze Fisiche, Universitá di Napoli Federico II, Pad. 20 Mostra d'Oltremare, I-80125, Napoli, Italy

    U. Bernini, M. Feo & P. Russo

  2. Istituto Nazionale per la Fisica della Materia, Unitá di Napoli, I-80125, Napoli, Italy

    U. Bernini, L. De Stefano, M. Feo & P. Russo

  3. Istituto di Cibernetica, C.N.R., Via Toiano 6, I-80072, Arco Felice, Napoli, Italy

    P. Mormile

Authors
  1. U. Bernini
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  2. L. De Stefano
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  3. M. Feo
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  4. P. Mormile
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  5. P. Russo
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Correspondence to P. Mormile.

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Bernini, U., De Stefano, L., Feo, M. et al. Optical bistability by nonlinear reflection in a polymeric blend. Appl. Phys. B 63, 155–159 (1996). https://doi.org/10.1007/BF01095267

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  • DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/BF01095267

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