X-ray diffraction imaging of strain fields in a domain-inverted LiTa0{sub 3} crystal.
We investigate lattice orientation and strain fields across ferroelectric domain walls in a single crystal lithium tantalate using x-ray diffraction imaging (topography). The sample is an actual voltage-operated optical switch consisting of a series of triangular polarization-inverted domains formed in an originally poled single crystal. By applying an electric field only about 2% of the coercive field in the forward and reverse directions, we observed asymmetric lattice rotation of about 10{sup -6} rad, and normal strain variation in the order of 10{sup -5} with reference to the zero-field state. Our results confirm that in congruent LiTaO{sub 3} crystals there is unexpectedly large strain field expanding several micrometers across the domain walls, in contrast with the widely accepted theoretical fact that in this material the polarization reversal establishes over only a few lattice constants, resulting in small and localized lattice distortions.
- Research Organization:
- Argonne National Lab. (ANL), Argonne, IL (United States)
- Sponsoring Organization:
- USDOE Office of Science (SC)
- DOE Contract Number:
- DE-AC02-06CH11357
- OSTI ID:
- 939564
- Report Number(s):
- ANL/CNM/JA-61064; JAPIAU; TRN: US200823%%157
- Journal Information:
- J. Appl. Phys., Vol. 104, Issue Aug. 15, 2008; ISSN 0021-8979
- Country of Publication:
- United States
- Language:
- ENGLISH
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