Laser-based direct-write techniques for electrode patterning of quasi-phase-matching media

Abstract

Periodically poled materials have become popular over the past decade as media for achieving efficient quasi-phase-matched frequency conversion. The materials used for periodic poling are generally ferroelectric optical crystals such as lithium niobate and its isomorphs. The techniques for fabricating periodically poled materials were well established by the late 90s and generally use a lithographically patterned electrode structure on the crystal surface to provide an isopotential whilst poling in an electrolyte solution. We report advances in an alternative method for fabricating the electrode patterning used in periodic poling. Utilizing laser direct write techniques, novel electrode structures can be fabricated quickly and at a fraction of the cost of lithographic techniques.Periodically poled materials have become popular over the past decade as media for achieving efficient quasi-phase-matched frequency conversion. The materials used for periodic poling are generally ferroelectric optical crystals such as lithium niobate and its isomorphs. The techniques for fabricating periodically poled materials were well established by the late 90s and generally use a lithographically patterned electrode structure on the crystal surface to provide an isopotential whilst poling in an electrolyte solution. We report advances in an alternative method for fabricating the electrode patterning used in periodic poling. Utilizing laser direct write techniques, novel electrode structures can be fabricated quickly and at a fraction of the cost of lithographic techniques.