Twins in YAl3(BO3)4 and K2Al2B2O7 Crystals as Revealed by Changes in Optical Activity
Source abstract
Abstract
Many borate crystals feature nonlinear optical properties that allow for efficient frequency conversion of common lasers down into the ultraviolet spectrum. Twinning may degrade crystal quality and affect nonlinear optical properties, in particular if crystals are composed of twin domains with opposing polarities. Here, we use measurements of optical activity to demonstrate the existence of inversion twins within single crystals of YAl 3 (BO 3 ) 4 (YAB) and K 2 Al 2 B 2 O 7 (KABO). We determine the optical rotatory dispersion of YAB and KABO throughout the visible spectrum using a spectrophotometer with rotatable polarizers. Space-resolved measurements of the optical rotation can be related to the twin structure and give estimates on the extent of twinning. The reported dispersion relations for the rotatory power of YAB and KABO may be used to assess crystal quality and to select twin-free specimens.
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Research context
OpenAlex topics: Crystal Structures and Properties · Photorefractive and Nonlinear Optics · Solid State Laser Technologies
SciVX discovery tags are terminology-based. OpenAlex topics are source-provided classifications.
Affiliations
FEE GmbH, Struthstr. 2, 55743 Idar-Oberstein, Germany
Division of Geological and Planetary Sciences, California Institute of Technology, 1200 E. California Blvd., Pasadena, CA 91125, USA
Hochschule Trier, Umwelt-Campus Birkenfeld, Campusallee, 55768 Hoppstädten-Weiersbach, Germany
Funding
Bundesministerium für Bildung und Forschung
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