Published online by Cambridge University Press: 15 February 2011
Nonlinear bleaching and induced absorption effects in CuS microcrystals with modified (after oxidation) surface have been studied. Relaxation times of these processes demonstrate two components - fast (˜ 80 ps) and slow (>>500 ps). Energy level scheme for explanation of these phenomena was proposed. Appearance of bleaching effect in CuS microcrystals due to surface oxidation makes them as perspective materials for saturable absorbers for pico- and femtosecond lasers.