Characterization and optimization of a ring self-pumped phase conjugate mirror at 1.06 Μm with BaTiO3:Rh

Abstract : We optimize the ring self-pumped phase-conjugate mirror at 1.06 mm. With cw as well as nanosecond illumination the photorefractive efficiency is higher than 90%. Therefore the reflectivity (79%) is limited only by the transmission of the loop. Another relevant characteristic is the time needed to increase the reflectivity from 10% to 90% of its maximum value, which is as little as 12 s at 5 W cm22 in the cw regime. In the nanosecond regime, 90 J cm22 is needed. We study the response to an abrupt change in the incident wave front, taking into account the three-prism system inserted in the loop.