Formation of single-domain layers in multidomain LiNbO3 crystals by proton exchange and quick heat treatment

Abstract

Experimental studies on the formation of single-domain layers in a multidomain z-cut LiNbO3 crystal plate by proton exchange followed by quick heat treatment were performed. It was found that the direction of the spontaneous polarization in the single-domain layer points to the inside of the plate. To explain this phenomenon, an internal electric field model was proposed which is related to the proton concentration gradient.