Pittman, ToddJones, D.EFranson, J.D.2020-08-032020-08-032013-11-06T. B. Pittman, D. E. Jones, and J. D. Franson, Ultralow-power nonlinear optics using tapered optical fibers in metastable xenon, Phys. Rev. A 88, 053804 (2013), DOI:https://doi.org/10.1103/PhysRevA.88.053804https://doi.org/10.1103/PhysRevA.88.053804http://hdl.handle.net/11603/19313We demonstrate nanowatt-level saturated absorption using a subwavelength diameter tapered optical fiber (TOF) suspended in a gas of metastable xenon atoms. This ultralow-power nonlinearity is enabled by a small optical mode area propagating over a relatively long distance through the Xe gas. The use of inert noble gases in these kinds of TOF experiments may offer practical advantages over the use of reactive alkali-metal vapors, such as rubidium.3 pagesen-USThis item is likely protected under Title 17 of the U.S. Copyright Law. Unless on a Creative Commons license, for uses protected by Copyright Law, contact the copyright holder or the author.©2013 American Physical SocietyText