Ferroelectric Crystals for Laser Radiation Control, (Adam Hilger Series on Optics and Optoelectronics)

Ferroelectric Crystals for Laser Radiation Control, together with the authors' previous volume, Physics and Chemistry of Crystalline Lithium Niobate, embrace most of the crystals of alkaline and alkali-earth niobates and tantalates: those already widely used, and those which will be used in the near future to control laser radiation in the visible and near-infrared range. Potassium titanate phosphate and its analogues, and beta-barium borate are described in this volume. These crystals have high damage thresholds, making them ideal for laser radiation control. Their photorefractive, ferroelectric, electro-optic and nonlinear optical properties; the mechanisms of interaction between laser radiation and their ferroelectric nature; and the practical applications of these phenomena are discussed. The physico-chemical aspects of their growth technology are also highlighted. Postgraduate researchers and device designers will be encouraged in the development of these ferroelectric crystals, particularly within laser engineering. The lessons learnt from both Physics and Chemistry of Crystalline Lithium Niobate and Ferroelectric Crystals for Laser Radiation Control will enable applications of new crystals to be sought.