Abstract

We present the results of a general theory and specific experimental observation of the time dependence of a nonlinear optical switching through a thin film that possesses an intensity-dependent refractive index. The incident laser is near the total internal reflection state. Our theory explicitly accounts for the material response time and the time evolution of both the refractive index and optical field distribution in the nonlinear film and other equally important parameters such as strong reflection feedback and interference, angle of incidence, film thickness, and laser intensities. Experimental results with both cw and pulsed lasers with various types of nonlinearity are also presented.

© 1988 Optical Society of America