Domain broadening in quasi-phase-matched nonlinear optical devices

Dominant factors influencing domain broadening in periodically poled ferroelectric domain structures for quasi-phase-matched nonlinear optical converters are studied. it is shown that fabricated patterned switching electrode gives rise to a high tangential field causing polarization inversion behind an isolated layer of the patterned electrode. The domain broadening depends on basic electron parameters of a ferroelectric crystal such as surface electron concentration and electron mobility. (C) 1998 American Institute of Physics.