Electro-optic contrast observations in single-domain epitaxial films of bismuth titanate

Abstract

Electro‐optic switching has successfully been demonstrated on untwinned (010) epitaxial bismuth titanate films grown on (110) MgAl₂O₄ substrates. This result is achieved on large‐area films using an interdigitated electrode array structure which can be used both for electrical poling and subsequent electro‐optic address. A contrast ratio higher than 7:1 between the on and off states is obtained with a 10‐μm‐thick film. A gradual variation of the contrast ratio with switching field is observed, which gives the film a capability for grey scale.