Domain patterning in LiNbO3 and LiTaO3 by focused electron beam

Abstract: Patterned ferroelectric domains and domain selective etching of the patterned domains can provide ferroelectrics-based photonic crystals. In this paper, electron-beam has been applied to switch domains in LiNbO3 (LN) and LiTaO3 (LT) crystals. The complex dynamics of interaction of beam electrons with the crystals has been highlighted. Based on this research, an improved e-beam domain patterning technique utilizing resist covering is successfully applied to switch domains in a z-cut 1mol% MgO-doped stoichiometric LN at room temperature. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]