An experimental search for optical bistability

Abstract

An unsuccessful attempt was made to experimentally observe dispersive optical bistability. Following this attempt, nonlinear absorption was sought. A dye solution was found which exhibited an absorption which increased with increasing input power. Transient and steady-state effects were examined experimentally and are discussed qualitatively. Unfortunately, no bistability was observed, though this can be explained. Finally, control of one laser beam by another via the nonlinear absorber was demonstrated.