Incoherent spatial optical solitons in photorefractive crystals

In this paper we have presented a theoretical investigation on the propagation properties of incoherent solitons in photorefractive media which is characterized by noninstantaneous saturating nonlinearity. Using mutual coherence function approach, we have obtained the equation of existence curve for such solitons. We have discussed the coherence characteristics of these solitons. We have found that solitons with a particular radius can possess two different critical powers. The dynamical evolution of these solitons has been discussed in detail by both analytical and numerical simulation.

► We study incoherent solitons in photorefractive media using noninstantaneous nonlinearity.
► Identified equation of existence curve for incoherent solitons.
► Power and coherent characteristics together decide propagation properties of these solitons.
► Two critical power exist for stable soliton with a given spatial width.
► Width of a stationary soliton depends both on power and coherent radius.