Magneto-optic Kerr effect in a slab waveguide

A theoretical and numerical investigation of the magneto-optic Kerr effect in a slab optical waveguide bounded on one side by a thin magnetic film is considered. The output power has been determined as a function of the input polarization angle, output analyzer angle, thickness of the intermediate cladding layer, and the length of the magnetic film. It is found that an optimal choice of these parameters exists that produces an enhancement in polarization rotation. Moreover the Kerr effect in a confined geometry shows a richness of properties that can be experimentally checked and opens up new possibilities for the development of magnetic field sensors.