Development of Optimized Quality Barium Sodium Niobate Crystals.

摘要

Barium sodium niobate (Ba2NaNb5O15or Banana) has been known for some years to be the most effective nonlinear optical material available for second harmonic generation. It has a large nonlinear electro-optic coefficient and a high optical damage threshold. Banana is a logical choice for use as a frequency doubler (1.06micrometers to 0.53micrometers) for laser transmitters in such applications as space laser communications systems. However, Banana is an extremely difficult crystal to grow. The objective of this program was to improve growth techniques so that crystals of optimized quality could be produced. Barium sodium niobate crystals with high optical quality and low coefficient of absorption were developed. Characterization techniques applied to these crystals are described.