Real-Time Ultrashort Pulse Shaping and Pulse-Shape Measurement Using a Dynamic Grating

Abstract
We report a new technique for shaping an ultrashort pulse and measuring a pulse shape in real time using an optically induced dynamic grating in a nonlinear material. The technique is all optically controllable, not limited by electronic switching time, and works over a wide range of wavelengths. We demonstrate the technique by using three kinds of nonlinear materials: a Bi12SiO20 (BSO) crystal, a DODCI solution and a ZnSe film.