Low-threshold bistable reflection assisted by oscillating wave interaction with Kerr nonlinear medium*

Abstract

Owing to the enormously enhanced oscillating wave, a minute variation of the incident light intensity will give rise to a change in the dielectric constant of the Kerr nonlinear medium and lead to a bistable reflection with an ultra-low threshold intensity, which is closely related to the angle of incidence and the thickness of the Kerr nonlinear medium. The criterion for the existence of optical bistability is derived. Our bistability scheme is simple and not limited to the TM-polarization.