Measurements and analysis of nonlinear properties of materials for all-optical devices

Summary form only given. Optical materials are screened using a experimental and theoretical approaches to deduce nonlinear properties needed for all-optical applications. Nonlinear index values, dispersion, and residual absorption are deduced from data obtained in an interferometric setup at various wavelengths. Results are presented for promising nonlinear undoped glasses. Basically, a Mach-Zehnder interferometer compares the two beams (probe and reference) in phase and amplitude. A thin sample is located in the probe arm and interacts with the stronger collinear pump beam.