Optical properties and laser action in one-dimensional periodic dielectrics containing liquid crystal as defect layer

The wavelength of the laser action based on a defect mode in a one-dimensional periodic structure has been electrically controlled using a dye-doped nematic liquid crystal as a defect layer. The lasing wavelength is widely tuned upon the applying electric field, which originates from the refractive index change in the defect layer caused by the field-induced realignment of the liquid crystal molecules.