Nonlinear optical properties of chalcogenide glass fibers and their application to all-optical switching

Chalcogenide glass fiber is one of the most promising candidates for use as a nonlinear optical medium because of its high optical nonlinearity and long interaction length, This paper reviews the research progress of its nonlinear optical properties and its application to all-optical switching. Specific linear and nonlinear properties of the fiber are summarized. Recent studies on all-optical switching using the fiber and fiber grating fabrication for dispersion compensation are also reported. (C) 1997 Academic Press.