Search

Waveguides fabrication in Z- and X-cut LiNbO[sub 3] crystals by vapor zinc diffusion has been studied by secondary ion mass spectrometry and optical measurements. Compositional analysis of diffused substrates shows the formation of a Zn rich superficial layer, followed by a deeper region with decreasing Zn concentration. A subsequent thermal annealing process has been performed to let zinc ions further diffuse into the substrates. The composition profiles have been correlated with the refractive index profiles, reconstructed by optical reflectivity measurements. The results and the nature of the detected layers are discussed and correlated with previous x-ray studies obtained in the same samples. © 2000 American Institute of Physics. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Erbium-doped LiNbO[sub 3] slides are fabricated by the ion exchange process. Compositional in-depth profiles of the species involved in the exchange are obtained by secondary ion mass spectrometry. Spectroscopic properties of Er[sup 3+] ions in the matrix are determined by photoluminescence spectroscopy. Structural and spectroscopic analyses suggest the formation of two different microstructures in the exchanged region. The potential of ion exchange for a controlled doping of LiNbO[sub 3] is outlined. © 1998 American Institute of Physics. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]