Model of a nonlinear directional coupler in gallium arsenide

Abstract

We have calculated the response of a nonlinear directional coupler fabricated in an AlGaAs/GaAs structure using a realistic model for the optical nonlinearities. The model takes into account carrier-density-dependent index of refraction and absorption, and lateral carrier diffusion in each of the two coupled channel waveguides. Our results differ considerably from those obtained using a Kerr model for the optical nonlinearities.