Interaction between domain reversal processes and light in barium titanate

Abstract

Polarization reversal in top seeded solution grown barium titanate can be influenced by 488 nm laser light. Switching is achieved in a shorter time and backswitching is removed. The degree of polarization reversal can be monitored optically via photorefractive two-beam coupling. Optically induced space-charge gratings can be converted into domain gratings by influencing the location of domains when the crystal is partially switched by an applied electric field.