Arbitrary waveform synthesis by multiple harmonics generation and phasing in aperiodic optical superlattices

Abstract

The process of generating periodic optical waveforms includes the generation and phasing of several harmonics of a fundamental frequency. In this work, we show that simultaneous generation and phasing of the harmonics can be performed in a monolithic aperiodic optical superlattice (AOS). Stable periodic waveforms can thus be delivered to a predetermined location by simply sending a laser beam through a properly designed and fabricated AOS crystal. A detailed mathematical description for generating the domain pattern in such an AOS crystal is given and the process is numerically demonstrated. The waveform that is generated from a monolithic AOS is highly reproducible and phase stable. We also use propagation in air as an example to show how any predictable phase and amplitude modifications such as air dispersion that will alter the desired waveform can be pre-compensated in the design phase of the AOS crystal. (C) 2009 Optical Society of America