A novel technique for efficient amplitude modulation of light is investigated: diffraction modulation by piezoelectrically induced standing wave refractive index gratings in photoelastic crystals. We describe the operation of such devices and derive expressions predicting the modulation efficiency in terms of material parameters and drive power. Experiments with a lithium niobate crystal have shown that 100% light modulation can easily be achieved with electrical powers of a few tens of milliwatts. Applying higher drive powers sharp transmission peaks are created. Owing to these unique features this technique is expected to significantly advance the state-of-the-art of actively mode-locked lasers.
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Project (external):
Fonds zur Förderung der wissenschaftlichen Forschung
