Nonlinear pulse propagation in periodic media with and without defects

The influence of single defects within a periodic structure on the nonlinear transmission of optical pulses through the structure is investigated numerically. A stack of alternating linear and cubically nonlinear layers of submicron thicknesses is considered. The simulations are based on a modified equation for the pulse envelope. Diffraction of the pulse has been taken into account, too. The results of simulations have been demonstrated as an essential influence of defects within the periodic structure on the nonlinear propagation of optical pulses, when the carrier frequency is chosen within the stop band of the structure with the defect.