Thermally induced optical bistability in II–VI semiconductor crystals and thin films

Abstract

Photothermal optical bistability (OB) has the advantage of working at room temperature, in the visible and with cw exitation. For this reason it is the most likely model system for studies concerning a future optical computer. Important aspects are package density, cross-talk between adjacent spots, and switching intensities and times. The switching dynamics are examined and the critical slowing down is found to play an important role. Improved self-electro-optic effect devices (SEEDs) based on ZnSe and CdS are presented. The optical nonlinearities of thin evaporated films are examined and optical bistability is achieved in a wavelength adapted Cd 1- x Zn x S layer.