Optical parametric amplification of arbitrarily polarized light in periodically poled LiNbO3

Optical parametric amplification (OPA) of arbitrarily polarized light is proposed in a multi-section periodically poled Lithium Niobate (PPLN). External electric field is applied on selected sections to induce the polarization rotation of involved lights, thus the quasi-phase matched optical parametric processes exhibit polarization insensitivity under suitable voltage. In addition to the amplified signal wave, an idler wave with the same polarization is generated simultaneously. As an example, a similar to 10 times OPA showing polarization independency is simulated. Applications of this technology are also discussed. (C) 2012 Optical Society of America