Phase conjugate interferometry using a photorefractive crystal-dye film composite

Abstract

A novel approach for phase conjugate interferometry using a composite material which contains both a photorefractive crystal and a dye-doped polymer thin film, in a degenerate four-wave mixing geometry, is reported. The preparation of this composite material, the time scales of the mechanisms involved and the working principle of this interferometer are discussed. Both double exposure and real-time interferometry are demonstrated by considering specific cases of interest. A comparative analysis with respect to the other interferometric schemes is made.