Optical Bistability Based on MoS2 in the Kretschmann–Raether Configuration at Visible Light Frequencies

Abstract

In this study, we theoretically study the optical bistability (OB) of reflected light beams at visible light frequencies by using a Kretschmann–Raether (KR) configuration where double-layer MoS2 is inserted. This OB phenomenon results from the local field enhancement owing to the excitation of metal surface plasmon polaritons (SPPs) and the introduction of the double-layer MoS2. By considering the third-order conductivity of MoS2, we obtain a threshold electric field with an incident electric field of 107 V/m levels. Furthermore, the influences of the structural parameters on the hysteretic behavior as well as the threshold of OB are clarified. This tunable OB phenomenon will provide possible options for nonlinear optical bistable devices.