Modeling of the photorefractive nonlinear response in Sn_2P_2S_6 crystals

We develop a theory of the photorefractive nonlinear response for Sn2P2S6 crystals. The theory incorporates two types of charge carrier (optically active and passive), provides explicit expressions for the characteristic buildup-relaxation rates and gain factors, explains naturally a big variety of accumulated experimental data, and facilitates characterization-optimization of this important nonlinear material.