Large-angle optical switching in waveguides in LiNbO3

Abstract
Optical waveguiding layers displaying great photorefractive sensitivity have been formed by diffusion of iron into LiNbO3. Thick phase gratings of greater than 50% diffraction efficiency have been formed within such waveguiding layers by intersecting guided beams of red light from a He-Ne laser. By writing the gratings in a sample heated to 160°C, fixed gratings of about 1% diffraction efficiency have been produced. Modulation of the diffracted beam by electro-optic deflection of the input beam has been demonstrated.