Nonlinear refraction and nonlinear absorption of various media

A review of studies of the nonlinear refraction and nonlinear absorption of semiconductors, fullerenes, dyes, metals, crystals, and liquids (bulk samples, suspensions, solutions, embedded nanoparticles, and thin films) is presented. Some of these media are analysed as optical limiters of intense laser radiation. We present our measurements of their nonlinear refractive indices, nonlinear absorption coefficients, saturation intensities, and nonlinear susceptibilities using the laser pulses generated in various spectral and temporal ranges. Various techniques for the preparation of nanoparticles in different solvents are discussed. We also present our studies of the high-order nonlinearities of some of these media.