Experimental Uncertainty in Third-Order Susceptibility and Molecular Second Hyperpolarizability Measurements Obtained with Degenerate Four-Wave Mixing

摘要

An uncertainty analysis is performed on a degenerate four-wave mixing scheme used in the determination of the third-order susceptibility and molecular second hyperpolarizability of nonlinear optical materials. Equations are derived based on the root-sum-squares method, which accounts for uncertainty in all applicable experimental parameters. These expressions are incorporated into a computer program, which is used to investigate absolute and relative uncertainties as well as the sensitivity of overall system accuracy to individual parameters. Conclusions are drawn based on the results of the analysis.