Nonlinear and linearized solutions for edge effects in thin photorefractive materials

The distribution of potential and electric field are determined in an insul ator-photorefractive-film-insulator sandwich due to the incidence of a sing le optical beam. The role of surface states and the distinction between sur face charge and charge residing in the vicinity of the surface are discusse d. The mathematical solution for the steady state is obtained, based on the well known transport equations of photorefractive theory. In particular, e dge effects caused by an applied voltage, by surface states and by the atte nuation of the optical beam are discussed through a number of examples. App roximate mathematical solutions are obtained and their accuracy is discusse d.