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Photonics
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Advanced Methods in Exploring Light–Matter Interactions and Nonlinear Effects Optics...
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Advanced Methods in Exploring Light–Matter Interactions and Nonlinear Effects Optics Applications

A special issue of Photonics (ISSN 2304-6732). This special issue belongs to the section "Optical Interaction Science".

Deadline for manuscript submissions: 30 November 2025 | Viewed by 4729

Special Issue Editors

Dr. Zhaohong Liu

E-Mail Website
Guest Editor
Center for Advanced Laser Technology (CALT), Hebei University of Technology, Tianjin 300401, China
Interests: nonlinear optics; high-power laser; stimulated Brillouin scattering; solid-state laser; spectral imaging; microimaging
Special Issues, Collections and Topics in MDPI journals
Prof. Dr. Yuanqin Xia

E-Mail Website
Guest Editor
Center for Advanced Laser Technology (CALT), Hebei University of Technology, Tianjin 300401, China
Interests: nonlinear optical microscopy; coherent anti-Stokes Raman spectrum; ultrafast laser spectroscopy; measurement of temperature and concentration in high-temperature turbulent combustion field
Dr. Xiao Fang

E-Mail Website
Guest Editor
School of Integrated Circuit Science and Engineering, Beihang University, Xueyuan Str 37, Haidian District, Beijing 100191, China
Interests: millimeter-wave; terahertz; system-on-chip; biomedical communication systems; millimeter-wave/terahertz phased arrays; RF chips; on-chip/AiP antennas; low-power implantable chips; implantable/wearable body communication; embedded systems
Special Issues, Collections and Topics in MDPI journals
Dr. Jiawei Sun

E-Mail Website
Guest Editor
Competence Center for Biomedical Laser Systems (BIOLAS), Laboratory of Measurement and Sensor System Technique (MST), Technische Universität Dresden, Helmholtzstrasse 18, 01069 Dresden, Germany
Interests: fiber-optics; digital holography; wavefront shaping; deep learning; quantitative phase imaging
Special Issues, Collections and Topics in MDPI journals
Dr. Zeyu Gao

E-Mail Website
Guest Editor
Key Laboratory on Adaptive Optics, Institute of Optics and Electronics, Chinese Academy of Science, Chengdu, China
Interests: adaptive optics; wavefront sensing; laser communication; flow measurements
Special Issues, Collections and Topics in MDPI journals
Dr. Jiarui Li

E-Mail Website
Guest Editor
Scarcelli Lab, Fischell Department of Bioengineering, University of Maryland, 3102 A. James Clark Hall, College Park, MD 20742, USA
Interests: Brillouin spectroscopy; nonlinear optics; stimulated Brillouin scattering; biomechanical imaging; microimaging

Special Issue Information

Dear Colleagues,

The investigation of light–matter interactions and nonlinear optics has been a research hotspot in recent years. This research has gained significant momentum owing to its pivotal role in advancing technologies across various fields, such as solid-state laser, nonlinear optical microscopy, high-energy physics, and millimeter-wave/terahertz system-on-chip. Its aim is to understand the new application of light–matter interactions and nonlinear optics. As an example, the development of advanced imaging and spectroscopic methods has further propelled our ability to characterize and engineer materials to an unprecedented level. The scope of this Special Issue includes the latest advances in experimental, theoretical, and computational aspects of light–matter interactions and nonlinear effects optics.

Here, we invite original research articles and reviews on these topics. We encourage contributions that explore new aspects of these areas, including but not limited to the following:

  • Solid-state laser technology and their applications;
  • Nonlinear optics and high-power laser interactions;
  • Nonlinear optical microscopy;
  • AO systems and component technologies;
  • Machine learning applications in optical systems;
  • Wavefront shaping for enhanced optical performance;
  • Computational imaging techniques in nonlinear optics;
  • Millimeter-wave/terahertz system-on-chip.

We believe this Special Issue will offer a thorough overview of the latest advances in high-power lasers, light–matter interactions, and related fields. We eagerly anticipate your contributions.

Dr. Zhaohong Liu
Prof. Dr. Yuanqin Xia
Dr. Xiao Fang
Dr. Jiawei Sun
Dr. Zeyu Gao
Dr. Jiarui Li
Guest Editors

Manuscript Submission Information

Manuscripts should be submitted online at www.mdpi.com by registering and logging in to this website. Once you are registered, click here to go to the submission form. Manuscripts can be submitted until the deadline. All submissions that pass pre-check are peer-reviewed. Accepted papers will be published continuously in the journal (as soon as accepted) and will be listed together on the special issue website. Research articles, review articles as well as short communications are invited. For planned papers, a title and short abstract (about 100 words) can be sent to the Editorial Office for announcement on this website.

Submitted manuscripts should not have been published previously, nor be under consideration for publication elsewhere (except conference proceedings papers). All manuscripts are thoroughly refereed through a single-blind peer-review process. A guide for authors and other relevant information for submission of manuscripts is available on the Instructions for Authors page. Photonics is an international peer-reviewed open access monthly journal published by MDPI.

Please visit the Instructions for Authors page before submitting a manuscript. The Article Processing Charge (APC) for publication in this open access journal is 2400 CHF (Swiss Francs). Submitted papers should be well formatted and use good English. Authors may use MDPI's English editing service prior to publication or during author revisions.

Keywords

  • high-power lasers
  • nonlinear optics
  • light–matter interactions
  • solid-state lasers
  • Brillouin microscopy
  • Raman spectroscopy
  • radar detection
  • machine learning in optical systems
  • wavefront shaping
  • computational imaging
  • adaptive optics
  • fiber-optic systems
  • laser-based sensing
  • optical imaging techniques

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  • Greater discoverability: Special Issues support the reach and impact of scientific research. Articles in Special Issues are more discoverable and cited more frequently.
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Further information on MDPI's Special Issue policies can be found here.

Published Papers (7 papers)

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Research

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12 pages, 1285 KiB  
Article
Performance Analysis of Space-to-Ground Downlink for Polarization Shift Keying Optical Communications with a Gaussian-Schell Model Beam
by Jiajie Wu, Yuwei Zhang, Qingyan Li, Siyuan Yu and Jianjie Yu
Photonics 2025, 12(7), 643; https://doi.org/10.3390/photonics12070643 - 24 Jun 2025
Viewed by 143
Abstract
Free-space optical communication has emerged as a pivotal technology for space-to-ground downlinks; however, signal degradation caused by atmospheric turbulence continues to pose a significant challenge. In this study, a model for the polarization transmission characteristics of a Gaussian-Schell model (GSM) beam in downlink [...] Read more.
Free-space optical communication has emerged as a pivotal technology for space-to-ground downlinks; however, signal degradation caused by atmospheric turbulence continues to pose a significant challenge. In this study, a model for the polarization transmission characteristics of a Gaussian-Schell model (GSM) beam in downlink was established, and conditions sufficient for maintaining the polarization transmission characteristics were derived. The impact of the source spatial coherence on the performance of optical communication systems using circular polarization shift keying (CPolSK) modulation was investigated. Additionally, models for the probability density distribution and scintillation index of the optical intensity under atmospheric turbulence were developed along with a bit error rate model for the optical communication system. The effects of the laser spatial coherence on these models were also analyzed. The results indicate that the optimal performance in the turbulent downlink is achieved with fully coherent light, where the GSM-beam-based CPolSK-modulated system demonstrates a reduction of 1.51 dB in the required power compared to that of an on–off keying system. The implications of this study suggest that optimizing spatial coherence could significantly enhance the reliability of space-to-ground communication systems under atmospheric disturbances. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advanced Methods in Exploring Light–Matter Interactions and Nonlinear Effects Optics Applications)
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10 pages, 977 KiB  
Communication
Tailorable Brillouin Light Scattering in Air-Slit Suspended Waveguide
by Yanzhao Wang, Hongrun Ren and Yunjie Teng
Photonics 2025, 12(6), 586; https://doi.org/10.3390/photonics12060586 - 9 Jun 2025
Viewed by 209
Abstract
Silicon-based optical waveguides exhibit high Brillouin gain, enabling the realization of Brillouin lasers directly on silicon substrates. These lasers hold significant promise for applications such as tunable-frequency laser emission, ultrafast pulse generation via mode-locking techniques, and other advanced photonic functionalities. However, a key [...] Read more.
Silicon-based optical waveguides exhibit high Brillouin gain, enabling the realization of Brillouin lasers directly on silicon substrates. These lasers hold significant promise for applications such as tunable-frequency laser emission, ultrafast pulse generation via mode-locking techniques, and other advanced photonic functionalities. However, a key challenge in silicon-based Brillouin lasers is the requirement for long waveguide lengths to achieve sufficient optical feedback and reach the lasing threshold. This study proposes a novel floating waveguide architecture designed to significantly enhance the Brillouin gain in silicon-based systems. Furthermore, we introduce a breakthrough method for achieving wide-range phonon frequency tunability, enabling precise control over stimulated Brillouin scattering (SBS) dynamics. By strategically engineering the waveguide geometry (shape and dimensions), we demonstrate a tunable SBS phonon laser, offering a versatile platform for on-chip applications. Additionally, the proposed waveguide system features adjustable operating frequencies, unlocking new opportunities for compact Brillouin devices and integrated microwave photonic signal sources. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advanced Methods in Exploring Light–Matter Interactions and Nonlinear Effects Optics Applications)
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13 pages, 2693 KiB  
Communication
Prediction of Aluminum Alloy Surface Roughness Through Nanosecond Pulse Laser Assisted by Continuous Laser Paint Removal
by Jingyi Li, Rongfan Liang, Han Li, Junjie Liu and Jingdong Sun
Photonics 2025, 12(6), 575; https://doi.org/10.3390/photonics12060575 - 6 Jun 2025
Viewed by 289
Abstract
Reducing surface roughness can enhance the mechanical properties of processed materials. The variation law of the aluminum alloy surface roughness induced by continuous-nanosecond combined laser (CL) with different continuous laser power densities and laser delay is investigated experimentally. A back propagation neural network [...] Read more.
Reducing surface roughness can enhance the mechanical properties of processed materials. The variation law of the aluminum alloy surface roughness induced by continuous-nanosecond combined laser (CL) with different continuous laser power densities and laser delay is investigated experimentally. A back propagation neural network (BPNN) coupled with a sparrow search algorithm (SSA) is employed to predict surface roughness. The nanosecond laser energy density, continuous laser power density and laser delay are input parameters, while the surface roughness is output parameter. The lowest surface roughness is achieved with completely paint film removed by the CL while the nanosecond laser energy density is 1.99 J/cm2, the continuous laser power density is 2118 W/cm2 and the laser delay is 1 ms. Compared to the original target and the target irradiated by nanosecond pulse laser (ns laser), the reductions in the surface roughness are 20.62% and 12.00%, respectively. The SSA-BPNN model demonstrates high prediction accuracy, with a correlation coefficient (R2) of 0.98628, root mean square error (RMSE) of 0.024, mean absolute error (MAE) of 0.020 and mean absolute percentage error (MAPE) of 1.30% on the test set. These results indicate that the SSA-BPNN demonstrates higher-precision surface roughness prediction with limited experimental data than BPNN. Furthermore, the findings confirm that the CL can effectively reduce surface roughness. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advanced Methods in Exploring Light–Matter Interactions and Nonlinear Effects Optics Applications)
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8 pages, 1537 KiB  
Communication
Ag-Grid and Ag-Nanowires Hybrid Transparent Electrodes to Improve Performance of Flexible Organic Light-Emitting Devices
by Hao Yang, Yangang Bi, Shirong Wang, Congfang Wang, Haipeng Wang, Gaoda Ye and Jing Feng
Photonics 2025, 12(3), 272; https://doi.org/10.3390/photonics12030272 - 16 Mar 2025
Cited by 1 | Viewed by 807
Abstract
Flexible transparent conductive electrodes, with high optical transmittance, electrical conductivity, and flexible stability, still challenge the commercial development of flexible organic light-emitting devices (OLEDs). In this work, a novel Ag-grid and Ag-nanowire (Ag-grid/AgNW) hybrid transparent conductive film was proposed with extraordinary optoelectronic and [...] Read more.
Flexible transparent conductive electrodes, with high optical transmittance, electrical conductivity, and flexible stability, still challenge the commercial development of flexible organic light-emitting devices (OLEDs). In this work, a novel Ag-grid and Ag-nanowire (Ag-grid/AgNW) hybrid transparent conductive film was proposed with extraordinary optoelectronic and mechanical performance. The hybrid film exhibited a low resistivity of 9 Ω/sq and a high transparency of 67.9% at the wavelength of 550 nm, as well as outstanding mechanical robustness by surviving over 5000 bending cycles. By applying the proposed Ag-grid/AgNW hybrid electrode in flexible OLEDs, the electroluminescence performance, flexibility, and mechanical reliability of the devices were significantly improved. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advanced Methods in Exploring Light–Matter Interactions and Nonlinear Effects Optics Applications)
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10 pages, 3490 KiB  
Communication
Laser Linewidth Measurement Using an FPGA-Based Delay Self-Homodyne System
by Fanqi Bu, Zhongan Zhao, Longfei Li, Cunwei Zhang, Tie Li, Yaoyao Qi, Jie Ding, Bingzheng Yan, Chen Zhao, Yulei Wang, Zhiwei Lu, Yu Ding and Zhenxu Bai
Photonics 2025, 12(3), 203; https://doi.org/10.3390/photonics12030203 - 26 Feb 2025
Viewed by 685
Abstract
Narrow-linewidth lasers play a crucial role in nonlinear optics, atomic physics, optical metrology, and high-speed coherent optical communications. Precise linewidth measurement is essential for assessing laser noise characteristics; however, conventional methods are often bulky, costly, and unsuitable for integrated applications. This paper presents [...] Read more.
Narrow-linewidth lasers play a crucial role in nonlinear optics, atomic physics, optical metrology, and high-speed coherent optical communications. Precise linewidth measurement is essential for assessing laser noise characteristics; however, conventional methods are often bulky, costly, and unsuitable for integrated applications. This paper presents a compact and cost-effective delay self-homodyne system for laser linewidth measurement, leveraging a field-programmable gate array (FPGA)-based data acquisition circuit. By employing fast Fourier transform (FFT) analysis, the system achieves high-precision linewidth measurement in the kHz range. Additionally, by optimizing the fiber length, the system effectively suppresses low-frequency and 1/f noise, providing an integrated and efficient solution for advanced laser characterization with enhanced performance and reduced cost. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advanced Methods in Exploring Light–Matter Interactions and Nonlinear Effects Optics Applications)
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Review

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19 pages, 2372 KiB  
Review
Frontier Advances and Challenges of High-Power Thulium-Doped Fiber Lasers in Minimally Invasive Medicine
by Wen-Yue Xu, Gong Wang, Yun-Fei Li, Yu Yu, Yulei Wang and Zhiwei Lu
Photonics 2025, 12(6), 614; https://doi.org/10.3390/photonics12060614 - 16 Jun 2025
Viewed by 415
Abstract
Lasers are increasingly used in the biomedical field because of their concentrated energy, good stability, ease of use, and other advantages, promoting the development of precision medicine to a higher level. Medical laser equipment has transformed from a single therapeutic tool in an [...] Read more.
Lasers are increasingly used in the biomedical field because of their concentrated energy, good stability, ease of use, and other advantages, promoting the development of precision medicine to a higher level. Medical laser equipment has transformed from a single therapeutic tool in an intelligent and precise diagnostic system. Existing clinical laser equipment has significant technical bottlenecks regarding soft-tissue ablation precision and multimodal diagnostic compatibility, which seriously restricts its clinical application. High-power thulium-doped fiber lasers with operating wavelengths of 1.9–2.1 μm provide a revolutionary solution for minimally invasive surgery due to their high compatibility with the absorption peaks of water molecules in biological tissues. This study reviews recent advances in high-power thulium-doped fiber lasers for minimally invasive therapies in the biomedical field. Breakthrough results in four major clinical application scenarios, namely, urological lithotripsy, tumor precision ablation, disfiguring dermatological treatment, and minimally invasive endovenous laser ablation, are also summarized. By systematically evaluating its potential for multimodal diagnostic and therapeutic applications and thoroughly exploring the technical challenges and strategies for clinical transformation, we aim to provide a theoretical basis and practical guidance for the clinical transformation and industrialization of new-generation medical laser technology. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advanced Methods in Exploring Light–Matter Interactions and Nonlinear Effects Optics Applications)
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24 pages, 3261 KiB  
Review
Some Insights on Kerr Lensing Effects
by Kamel Aït-Ameur and Abdelkrim Hasnaoui
Photonics 2025, 12(6), 596; https://doi.org/10.3390/photonics12060596 - 10 Jun 2025
Viewed by 1172
Abstract
The research on high-order transverse modes in lasers was largely abandoned a few years after the invention of the laser in 1960. The main reason for this was that high-order beams are more divergent and less bright than the Gaussian beam. In the [...] Read more.
The research on high-order transverse modes in lasers was largely abandoned a few years after the invention of the laser in 1960. The main reason for this was that high-order beams are more divergent and less bright than the Gaussian beam. In the present paper, we showed that the behaviour of LGp0 beams faced to the optical Kerr effect (OKE) varies considerably depending on the mode order (p = 0 or p≥1). We focused our attention on the properties of LG00 and LG10 beams when subject to OKE, and we found that the LG10 beam keeps its focusability much better than the LG00 beam. This property has at least two applications concerning first the conception of high-intensity laser chains not based on a Gaussian beam but on an LG10 beam and second, the use of an LG10 beam instead of the usual Gaussian beam which can reduce drastically the protection of optical limiters based on OKE; this constitutes a counter-measure against such limiters. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advanced Methods in Exploring Light–Matter Interactions and Nonlinear Effects Optics Applications)
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