Single-stage few-cycle pulse amplification

Abstract

Kerr instability can be exploited to amplify visible, near-, and mid-infrared ultrashort pulses. We use the results of Kerr instability amplification theory to inform our simulations amplifying few-cycle pulses. We show that the amplification angle-dependence is simplified to the phase matching condition of four-wave mixing when the intense pump is considered. Seeding with few-cycle pulses near the pump leads to broadband amplification without spatial chirp, while longer pulses undergo compression through amplification. Pumping in the mid-IR leads to multi-octave spanning amplified pulses with single-cycle duration not previously predicted. We discuss limitations of the amplification process and optimizing pump and seed parameters to maximize amplification.