Double-resonant processes in χ(2) nonlinear periodic media

In a one-dimensional periodic nonlinear chi ((2)) medium, by choice of a proper material and geometrical parameters of the structure, it is possible to obtain two matching conditions for simultaneous generation of second and third harmonics. This leads to new diversity of the processes of the resonant three-wave interactions, which are discussed within the framework of the slowly varying envelope approach. In particular we concentrate on the fractional conversion of the frequency omega --> (2/3)(omega). This phenomenon occurs by means of intermediate energy transfer to the first harmonic at the frequency omega /3 and can be controlled by this mode. By analogy the same medium allows nondirect second-harmonic generation, controlled by the cubic harmonic. Propagation of localized pulses in the form of two coupled bright solitons on first and third harmonics and a dark soliton on the second harmonic is possible. (C) 2000 Optical Society of America [S0740-3224(00)01010-9].