Nonlinear optics in glasses: How can we analyze?

Maximal optical nonlinearity obtainable in amorphous materials at telecommunication wavelengths of ∼1.5 μm is predicted. Applying a semiconductor concept, we suggest that nonlinear properties become greater in the materials with smaller optical gaps. This trend makes the chalcogenide glass such as As2Se3 promising for fiber devices (∼1 m), including optical switches, intensity stabilizers, and stimulated Raman amplifiers. However, for integrated devices with optical path lengths of ∼1 cm, greater nonlinearity is needed.