Cerenkov second-harmonic generation by nondiffracting Bessel beams in bulk optical crystals

A new method of optical second-harmonic generation (SHG) in bulk media is proposed, using Bessel beams which realize Cerenkov phase matching. Single-domain crystals are presently considered. For noncollinear emission the scheme has the advantage of achieving conversion efficiencies of typically about double those achieved with unfocused Gaussian beams, over the same temperature bandwidth. The harmonic radiation is analysed using a Hankel transform-based spectral method. Numerical examples are given based on the crystal KNbO3, and possible experimental arrangements are suggested for the practical implementation of this method.