Polarization self-modulation effect in photoconductive electro-optic crystals

Alexei A. Kamshilin

doi:10.1117/12.435893

8 August 2001 Polarization self-modulation effect in photoconductive electro-optic crystals

Alexei A. Kamshilin

Proceedings Volume 4513, Optoelectronic Information Systems and Processing; (2001) https://doi.org/10.1117/12.435893
Event: Optoelectronic Information Systems and Processing, 2000, Vladivostok, Russian Federation

Abstract

Inhomogeneous illumination of any photoconductive crystal results in the formation of the space-charge field, which is a replica of the intensity distribution. If the crystal also possesses the electro-optic effect, the polarization state of the intensity pattern becomes spatially modulated since the pattern propagates in the self-induced non-uniform electric field. The polarization self-modulation has essentially three- dimensional character. After propagation the crystal of proper thickness, the polarization state of the transmitted light wave can vary from linear through circular to linear orthogonal in spite of the initial polarization being strictly uniform. This modulation can be readily visualized by installation of a polarization analyzer after the crystal. The polarization self-modulation is very important for correct description of nonlinear interaction of light waves in photorefractive crystals. Moreover, it has an important practical application for design of adaptive sensors of speckle-pattern displacements and adaptive interferometers capable to measure transient displacement of rough surfaces with sensitivity approaching to the classical homodyne interferometer.

Citation Download Citation

Alexei A. Kamshilin "Polarization self-modulation effect in photoconductive electro-optic crystals", Proc. SPIE 4513, Optoelectronic Information Systems and Processing, (8 August 2001); https://doi.org/10.1117/12.435893

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