Electric-field-controlled optical switch using Kerr effect and gradient of the composition ratio Nb/(Ta + Nb). (March 2016)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Gong, Dewei; Liang, Yonggan; Ou, Wenjing; Wang, Jianjun; Wu, You; Liu, Bing; Zhou, Zhongxiang
• Is Part Of: Materials research bulletin. Volume 75(2016)
• Page Start: 7
• Page End: 12
• Publication Date: 2016-03
• Subjects: A. Optical materials -- B. Crystal growth -- B. Optical properties -- D. Dielectric properties -- D. Ferroelectricity; Materials -- Periodicals; Crystal growth -- Periodicals; Matériaux -- Périodiques; Cristaux -- Croissance -- Périodiques; Crystal growth; Materials; Periodicals; 620.11
• DOI: 10.1016/j.materresbull.2015.11.003
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 0025-5408

Abstract

Graphical abstract: Highlights: An abnormal laser deflection phenomenon in KTN crystals is demonstrated. The origin of the deflection phenomenon was discussed in detail. By exploiting the deflection, we have designed an optical switch. The g 11 / g 12 ratio (>10), wavelength range(491–1064 nm), and I – V characteristics (0–800 V) were studied. The extinction ratio (0–1) and influence of the photorefractive effect were studied. Abstract: By exploiting the Kerr effect and the gradient of the composition ratio m, Nb/(Ta + Nb) in mol%, in KTa1− x Nb x O3 (KTN) crystals, we have designed an electric-field-controlled optical switch. The operating principle of the switch is described. During the switching process, the incident linearly polarized beam is orthogonally deflected as it propagates through the crystals. The g 11 / g 12 ratio (>10), wavelength range (491–1064 nm), I – V characteristics (0–800 V), extinction ratio (0–1), gradient of Curie temperature (21–22.9 °C), response time that may be in ns order, and influence of the photorefractive effect were studied. The results show that our design provides a new kind of optical switch with macro scale (mm order), adjustable extinction ratio (0–1), wide wavelength range (491–1064 nm).