Is it possible to redesign crystal structure after growth?
Yes! Shown in Fig. 2 is a picture of a crystal with microvariation in its ferroelectric domains. The periodic variation in the domain planes, seen below, then results in a crystal behavior with periodic electrical and optical properties. In this case the periodic domain reversed planes were produced starting with a uniform material and then writing optical holographic gratings which created the modulated material. Our vision is to develop micro-structure devices using domain programming written by a laser beam. Using our crystal growth facility and our experience in ferroelectric programming, we have a unique opportunity to develop the next generation of nano-ferroelectric devices. For example, we have recently made permanent 10 micron waveguides in the middle of a large crystal. In fact, we have formed and made permanent 10 micron Y-junctions. This opens up the possibility of a new technology of 3-D optical wiring throughout a crystal. This work is in collaboration with Matt Klotz, a
