A. M. Glass

Abstract The book develops the modern theory of ferroelectricity in terms of soft modes and lattice dynamics and also describes modern techniques of measurement, including X-ray, optic, and neutron scattering, infrared absorption, and magnetic resonance. It includes a discussion of the related phenomena of antiferroelectricity, pyroelectricity, and ferroelasticity and seconds on domains, thin films, ceramics, and polymers, leading to a comprehensive survey of potential and actual device capabilities for pyroelectric detection, memories, display, and modulation. It provides an authoritative account for those engaged in research or graduate study of ferroelectric or pyroelectric devices.

Photocurrents in doped LiNbO3 crystals are shown to be due to a bulk photovoltaic effect with saturation voltages in excess of 1000 V (∼105 V/cm). This effect accounts for the light-induced index changes in LiNbO3. An explanation of the photovoltaic effect, based on the asymmetry of the lattice, is proposed.

The dielectric constants, electrical conductivity, specific heat, and pyroelectric coefficients of ferro-electric Sr1−xBaxNb2O6 (SBN) are investigated as a function of temperature in the range 10°–500°K, and as a function of the Sr/Ba composition of the material. A simple technique for measuring absolute pyroelectric coefficients and spontaneous polarizations of ferroelectrics is described. The electric field and frequency dependence of the dielectric properties are also investigated. The theory of pyroelectric detection is discussed from a materials point of view, and the experimental data are considered in terms of the usefulness of SBN as a pyroelectric detector of electromagnetic radiation.

The optically induced change of the refractive index of electro-optic crystals, which was discovered over ten years ago in LiNb03, is now referred to as the photorefractive effect (by analogy with photochromism). Progress in our understanding of the microscopic mechanisms which has led to the development of optical recording sensitivities comparable to that of silver halide emulsions is reviewed. Possibilities for application of the effect to optical memories, holographic interferometry, and integrated optics are considered.