Propagation of ultrashort pulses in a nonlinear long-period fiber grating

By solving a pair of normalized nonlinear coupled-mode equations, we analyze in detail the propagation of ultrashort optical pulses in a nonlinear long-period fiber grating and investigate the conditions for the grating to function as an optical limiter or a saturable absorber. We show that the function of the grating depends on whether the nonlinear effect counteracts or enhances the detuning effect, and the nonlinear effect can be weakened significantly by the group-delay difference between the core mode and the coupled cladding mode. We present simulation results to illustrate these effects and discuss the physical conditions required for an effective operation of a nonlinear long-period grating. © 2009 Springer-Verlag.