Methods for Measuring Nonlinear Optical Properties

This chapter concerns the study processes of optical nonlinearities and their usefulness in the design and implementation of new technological applications. Thus, important aspects for the manufacture and characterization of various materials are highlighted, such as physical and chemical synthesis processes related to “top-down” and “bottom-up” production techniques. Moreover, the experimental methods for measuring second- and third-order optical nonlinearities, as well as the identification of the physical mechanisms of optical nonlinearity identified by various measurement techniques, are studied. Additionally, the material used as a reference in optical measurements due to its nonlinear optical characteristics is presented. The analysis is intended to gain an understanding of the third-order nonlinear optical susceptibility tensor-dependent optical parameters, such as nonlinear absorption coefficient and nonlinear refractive index. The theoretical foundations related to the effects derived from the transmission of mixed light waves through nonlinear optical media are established.