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Very High Resolution Optical Spectrometry by Stimulated Brillouin Scattering (CAT#: STEM-ST-0099-YJL)

Introduction

The very high transmission rates currently in use in optical communication systems make optical spectrum measurement one of the most useful tools for the diagnostic and monitoring of transmitted signals, with modulation frequencies approaching values that may be resolved by optical methods. Also, the generalization of wavelength-division-multiplexing techniques for greater bandwidth in optical communication systems demands improved optical spectrum measurements. These must combine both high-resolution and broad ranges in the spectral domain as well as high sensitivity and dynamic range in the optical power domain.




Principle

From a quantum point of view, Brillouin scattering is an interaction of light photons with acoustic or vibrational quanta (phonons), with magnetic spin waves (magnons), or with other low frequency quasiparticles interacting with light. The interaction consists of an inelastic scattering process in which a phonon or magnon is either created (Stokes process) or annihilated (anti-Stokes process). The energy of the scattered light is slightly changed, that is decreased for a Stokes process and increased for an anti-Stokes process. This shift, known as the Brillouin shift, is equal to the energy of the interacting phonon and magnon and thus Brillouin scattering can be used to measure phonon and magnon energies.

Applications

Brillouin scattering is used to determine acoustic velocities and elastic properties of a number of crystalline solids, glasses, and liquids.

Procedure

1. Sample preparation
2. Measurement by scattering detection instrument
3. Data analysis

Materials

Brillouin scattering measurement system (Brillouin spectrometer)