Abstract

Distributed feedback structures (DFBs) with a nonlinear index of refraction have been investigated theoretically¹ and optical bistability has been demonstrated in a distibuted feedback semiconductor laser amplifier². As of yet, however, the full potential of a passive nonlinear DFB has not been realized. Recent developments in the design and fabrication of semiconductor heterostructures have made passive DFBs attractive candidates for all optical swiches. These developments include: (1) The epitaxial growth of high reflectivity all semiconductor mirrors (Bragg reflectors)³ and (2) The fabrication of doping supperlattices which exhibit large optical nonlinearites at low levels of illumination⁴ and which can easily be incorporated into a Bragg reflector.

© 1988 Optical Society of America