The concept, effects and possible applications of optical and acoustical superlattices

Based on the studies of ferroelectric domain structures and the influence of growth striations on paraferroelectric phase transitions, a new type of crystal with periodic or quasi-periodic laminar ferroelectric domains has been prepared. It has been demonstrated that this kind of crystal produces significant effects with regard to optical and acoustical wave processes and can be used as a new type of device for a variety of applications in the optoelectric and acoustoelectric field. The author presents an overview of experimental and theoretical results on the concept of optical and acoustical superlattices and of novel effects and applications of such superlattices. Particular attention is given to the enhancement of second-harmonic generation in LiNbO₃ superlattices, to a resonator made of LiNbO₃ acoustical superlattices, and to resonators made of Ba ₂NaNb₅O₁₅ acoustical superlattices, and to transducers made of LiNbO₃ acoustical superlattices