Analysis of non-linear multilayer waveguides with Kerr-like permittivities

This paper presents a semi-analytical method for calculating the dispersion relationships for stationary non-linear TE waves guided by general multilayer waveguides with Kerr-like permittivities. The non-linear wave equations are solved rigorously for each layer, and the mode index and field distribution are systematically determined so as to satisfy the boundary conditions at all interfaces. To verify the validity of the present method, a non-linear graded-index waveguide is approximated by a number of step layers and the resultant multilayer waveguide is analysed numerically. The convergence properties of mode index and total power flow are presented, and these are compared with direct solutions of the non-linear wave equation by the numerical integration method. The dispersion relationships for a non-linear multiple-quantum-well waveguide have also been investigated under two simple permittivity models. The present method is useful for the analysis of non-linear graded-index waveguides in addition to non-linear multilayer waveguides such as the multiple-quantum-well structure.