Stability analysis of stationary nonlinear guided waves in self-focusing and self-defocusing Kerr-like layered media.

Abstract

In this paper, we develop a linear stability analysis of stationary nonlinear guided waves in self-focusing and self-defocusing Kerr-like layered media. The analysis is applicable to the general problem of the stability of stationary nonlinear guided waves in layered structures including one or more self-defocusing media, a previously unsolved problem. Further, as a demonstration of its use, the technique is applied to the case of the fundamental dark surface wave (FDSW), a wave guided near the interface between two dissimilar defocusing media. We obtain results consistent with a numerical stability analysis of the FDSW performed previously [J. Opt. Soc. Am. B 8, 2265 (1991)]. Finally, the generalization of this technique to arbitrary layered structures of Kerr-like media is discussed.