Abstract
This review will examine the origins of nonlinear light scattering processes in nematic liquid crystals, and explore various nonlinear photonic processes associated with optically induced director axis reorientation effects. Our theoretical prediction shows that the upper limit of nematic liquid crystal reorientation nonlinearity can be as high as 1000 cm2/W. The supra-nonlinear responses of nematic liquid crystals enable various self-action or electro-optical guiding, mixing, switching and modulation of light with unprecedented low power thresholds. Owing to the broadband birefringence of NLC, we expect to realize optical elements/devices capable of similar multi-functional operations throughout the visible - infrared regime. We also discuss the optical limiting action of isotropic-phase liquid crystal filled nonlinear fiber arrays.
Original language | English (US) |
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Pages (from-to) | 277-289 |
Number of pages | 13 |
Journal | Journal of Nonlinear Optical Physics and Materials |
Volume | 12 |
Issue number | 2 |
DOIs | |
State | Published - Jun 2003 |
All Science Journal Classification (ASJC) codes
- Electronic, Optical and Magnetic Materials
- Atomic and Molecular Physics, and Optics
- Physics and Astronomy (miscellaneous)