Abstract

We have developed a rapid and accurate method for measuring the nonlinear refractive index of transparent materials. It is based on a version of three-wave mixing in which the frequencies of the two input beams are adjusted to differ by about 60 cm⁻¹. The nonlinear index of a material is measured relative to that of a standard with a known index. Our measurements of 27 glasses are in good agreement with previous results, where available, and with the n₂ values calculated empirically from linear index parameters. We also discuss the relationship between the observed nonlinear index and the structure and composition of the glasses.

© 1987 Optical Society of America

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