Photonic applications of lithium niobate crystals

Abstract

In this paper the most important properties of lithium niobate crystals for photonic applications are reviewed. We will summarize how acting on the stoichiometry, sample structure, doping and domain structure of the crystals, these properties are governed, and can be taylored for each specific application. Finally we present a review of photonic applications in a wide spectrum of fields as lasers and non-linear optics, optical communications, optical memories, and diffractive optics.

Polarization reversal induced by heating-cooling cycles in MgO doped lithium niobate crystals

“…[1][2][3] LN and LT with precise periodic domain structure (PPLN and PPLT) produced by electric field poling allow to create various nonlinear-optical and electrooptical devices. [4][5][6] PPLN and PPLT are used for laser light frequency conversion with high efficiency based on quasiphase-matching effect. [7][8][9][10] It is known that the domain structure in the crystals of LN and LT family can be changed as a result of thermal cycling under the action of pyroelectric field.…”

Pyroelectric Trapping and Arrangement of Nanoparticles in Lithium Niobate Opposite Domain Structures

“…For many applications a single domain material is required. Other domain structures have been produced and advantageously used for other applications 11 . Particularly, the periodic poled lithium niobate (PPLN) structures consist of arrays of alternate oriented domains with separation walls parallel to the polarization direction.…”

NMR Analysis of Mg Ion Localization in LiNbO3Crystal

“…Lithium niobate (LN) is the material which has found very wide application in modern nonlinear optics and electroacoustics [1]. Along with the investigations of the crystal features for its usage as media for the optical information storing, a special attention is given to the possibility of LN optical properties stabilization during its treatment by powerful optical streams.…”