Nonlinear optical coefficients and phase-matching conditions in Sn<sub>2</sub>P<sub>2</sub>S<sub>6</sub>

Abstract

Phase matching conditions and second and third order nonlinear optical coefficients of Sn2P2S6 crystals are reported. The coefficients for second harmonic generation (SHG) are given at lambda = 1542 nm and 1907 nm at room temperature. The largest coefficients at these wavelengths are d111 = 17+/-1.5pm/V and d111 = 12+/-1.5pm/V, respectively. The third-order subsceptibilities chi(3) 1111 = (17 +/- 6) . 10-20m2/V2 and chi(3) 2222 = (9 +/- 3) . 10-20m2/V2 were determined at lambda = 1907 nm. All measurements were performed by the Maker-Fringe technique. Based on the recently determined refractive indices, we analyze the phase-matching conditions for second harmonic generation, sum- and difference-frequency generation and parametric oscillation at room temperature. Phase-matching curves as a function of wavelength and propagation direction are given. Experimental phase-matched type I SHG at 1907 nm has been demonstrated. The results agree very well with the calculations. It is shown that phase-matched optical parametrical oscillation is possible in the whole transparency range up to 8 microm with an effective nonlinear coefficient deff approximately 4pm/V.