Abstract

Methods for generating low-power picosecond pulses, applicable throughout the near-and mid-infrared spectral region, have now been demonstrated, and high-power picosecond sources have been developed covering the CO₂ laser wavelengths and its second harmonic. Extension to higher harmonics seems assured. It is now of interest to develop methods of further shortening picosecond pulses that are appropriate to the infrared. The traditional method of optical pulse compression is to use a Kerr-type (η=η₀+η₂E²) nonlinear medium to chirp an optical pulse and a linear dispersing material for pulse shortening.

© 1984 Optical Society of America