Three-dimensional finite-difference time-domain analysis of nonlinear self-focusing in air

Through using a three-dimensional finite-difference time-domain (3D-FDTD) scheme, we analyze nonlinear self-focusing in air as a Kerr medium. For sufficiently intense laser beams, the gaseous medium can behave as a strong positive lens which tends to focus the beam. Our simulationspsila major focus is on the propagation characteristics of an intense continuous-wave laser beam. Necessary relations have been introduced into the conventional FDTD formulation to account for the nonlinear behavior of air. The results clearly indicate that sufficient amounts of optical intensity may lead to self-focusing immediately in front of the laser aperture.