Instantaneous Frequency representation used for CPA laser simulation

TL;DR

This paper introduces a new graphical method for simulating non-linear effects in stretched laser pulses, enabling precise analysis of phenomena like pre-pulse generation in CPA laser systems.

Contribution

It presents an intuitive, graphical approach for simulating complex non-linear effects in chirped pulse amplification laser chains, surpassing previous methods limited to first order dispersion.

Findings

Accurately models non-linear effects in stretched pulses.

Handles all distortions, not just first order dispersion.

Enables precise determination of pre-pulse generation.

Abstract

We present a novel intuitive graphical method for the simulation of non-linear effects on stretched pulses characterized by a large time-bandwidth product. By way of example, it allows precise determination of effects occurring in CPA (chirped pulse amplification) laser chains, such as the pre-pulse generation by the non-linear Kerr effect. This method is not limited to first order dispersion and can handle all resulting distortions of the generated pre-pulse.