Quantum features of nonlinear coupler with competing nonlinearity

Abstract

In this work, we examine the quantum features of a multi-waveguide nonlinear coupler exploiting the second-and third-order nonlinearities. The considered system contains four identical channels, each with a single fundamental transverse mode. The essence of this type of nonlinear coupler is to examine the effect of two or more competing nonlinearities on the generated nonclassical features in this class of devices. Here, we consider the case of second harmonic generation, wherein the fundamental harmonic (FH) fields are up-converted in pairs to double-frequency second harmonic (SH) fields, which are then evanescently coupled with the fields from other Kerr nonlinear waveguides. Using the positive P representation of the phase space, the time-evolution of the density matrix could be mapped to the corresponding Fokker–Planck equation of a classical quasiprobability distribution. Using Langevin stochastic equation, an exact representation of the system in phase space led to the demonstration of sub-Poissonian property, squeezing, and entanglement. With more effective squeezing achieved in all channel waveguides, the present system with χ(2)–χ(3) interaction can be a more efficient alternative to other versions of nonlinear couplers such as the quantum optical dimer (QOD) and Kerr nonlinear coupler (KNC). Furthermore, such a structure offers more flexibility in coupled-mode interactions in the form of correlation between the modes in different waveguides. This provides a better mechanism for the generation of enhanced nonclassical effects.