Coherent Beam Combination at Interfaces via Surface Polariton Effects

Publisher Website
Google Scholar
Abstract
We examine theoretically the structure and properties of index gratings created by the interference pattern formed by a laser beam and a surface polariton at an interface coated with a thin layer of an optical Kerr material. Theory suggests that the energy-transfer characteristics of these gratings differ considerably from those created in the bulk material. This statement is underscored by a the prediction that energy transfer will occur for degenerate beams in the presence of a nonlinearly responding reflecting surface even though there is no photorefractive material present.