| BN | Boron nitride |
| BNNP | Boron nitride nanoparticles |
| BNNS | Boron nitride nanoplatelets |
| BNNT | Boron nitride nanotubes |
| ESA | Excited-state absorption |
| FCA | Free-carrier absorption |
| MPA | Multi-photon absorption |
| MWCNT | Multi-walled carbon nanotubes |
| NL | Nonlinear |
| NLO | Nonlinear optical |
| OL | Optical limiting |
| PVP | Polyvinylpyrrolidone |
| 1PA | One-photon absorption |
| 2PA | Two-photon absorption |
| RSA | Reverse saturable absorption |
| 3PA | Three-photon absorption |
| VIS | visible |