Non-Linear Optical (NLO) Materials
Unlike typical inorganic metals, semiconductors, and insulators, NLO materials feature more complex crystal structures with lower symmetry. This structure creates a highly anisotropic environment for light passing through the crystal, resulting in unique optical properties. These crystals are typically cut into small bars, with millimeter-scale dimensions, to serve as active components in frequency multipliers and optical parametric oscillators. Surface quality analysis of these small crystals can reveal structural defects and cracks.
The large unit cells of NLO materials present a challenge for measurement, but the Omega Scan method has been successfully adapted to determine key parameters for important NLO materials like LBO, BBO, and TeO2. Special modifications to the Omega/Theta design enable NLO capabilities across a variety of materials, ensuring precise and reliable analysis.
Related Technologies: Omega-scan
