Synthesis, reversible laser modification and structural characterization of As-S based functional media for ultrafast photonics

Abstract

Non-crystalline chalcogenides with high infrared transparency, have stood out as materials of choice for infrared optics. Research into the physical properties of these materials revealed their unique and remarkable structural, electronic, optical properties and large functionality, and has attracted significant attention, representing an important scientific and technological challenge. In addition to their intrinsic infrared properties, they offer wide possibilities in domains such as information technologies (optical data storage, ultrafast optical transmission and information processing), photolithography, renewable energy technologies (high efficiency solar cells, solid electrolytes), medicine, thermal imaging, sensing and biosensing etc. thanks to the advantageous combination of infrared properties, optical activity, structural photosensitivity and high third-order optical non-linearity. Recent progress in photonics shows that amorphous chalcogenides are among the best candidates as active optical media for ultrafast all-optical processing systems