Abstract

Here we investigate theoretically the transmittance of the system polarizer - crystal(s) for second harmonic generation - analyzer (fig 1). Such system can be called frequency doubling polarization interferometer (FDPI). The nonlinear crystals are at quasi phase matched condition. In this case due to the cascade second order processes |1| the fundamental wave obtains nonlinear phase shift (NLPS) with magnitude that depends on the intensity and the value of the normalized mismatch ΔkL. In order to obtain change of the state of the polarization of the fundamental wave at the output of the crystal we choose linear input polarization for the fundamental wave oriented at 45° with respect to the main plane of the crystal. Only one of the two waves propagating through the crystal - the ordinary obtains additional intensity dependent NLPS. The wave plates (WP) in the scheme shown on fig. 1a are necessary to compensate the natural birefringence of the crystal.

© 1996 IEEE