Key Features
- Wide phase matching range (409.6-3500 nm)
- Broad transmission range (190-3500 nm)
- High nonlinear coefficient (six times that of KDP crystals)
- High damage threshold
- Excellent optical homogeneity (Δn ≈ 10⁻⁶/cm)
- Wide temperature acceptance bandwidth (±55°C)
Description
Beta-Barium Borate (β-BaB₂O₄), commonly known as BBO, is a nonlinear optical crystal with a wide transparency range and broad phase matching capabilities. BBO crystals are known for their high nonlinear coefficients, high damage threshold, and excellent optical homogeneity, making them ideal for various nonlinear optical applications, including OPO, OPA, and OPCPA. These characteristics make BBO crystals an attractive solution for demanding nonlinear optical applications.
Physical Properties
- Crystal Structure: Trigonal
- Lattice Constants: a = 12.532 Å, c = 12.717 Å, Z = 6
- Melting Point: ≈1095°C
- Mohs Hardness: 4
- Density: 3.85 g/cm³
- Transmission Range: 190-3500 nm
Optical Properties
- SHG Phase Matching Range: 409.6-3500 nm (Type I); 525-3500 nm (Type II)
- Absorption Coefficient: <0.001 cm⁻¹ @ 1064 nm, <0.003 cm⁻¹ @ 532 nm
- Nonlinear Coefficients:
- d₃₁ = 0.05 × d₁₁
- d₂₂ < 0.05 × d₁₁
- α₁₁ = 4 × 10⁻⁶/K
- α₃₃ = 36 × 10⁻⁶/K
- dn₁/dT = 16.6 × 10⁻⁶/°C
- dn₂/dT = -9.3 × 10⁻⁶/°C
Standard Specifications
- Optical Homogeneity: Δn ≈ 10⁻⁶/cm
- Flatness: λ/8 @ 633 nm
- Surface Quality: 10-5 scratch & dig (MIL-PRF-13830B)
- Parallelism: < 20 arcsec
- Perpendicularity: < 5 arcmin
- Angle Tolerance: < 30 arcmin
- Clear Aperture: > 90% of full aperture
- Damage Threshold: >10 GW/cm² @ 1064 nm, TEM00, 10 ns, 10 Hz
Applications
- Optical Parametric Oscillators (OPO)
- Optical Parametric Amplifiers (OPA)
- Optical Parametric Chirped Pulse Amplifiers (OPCPA)
- Second Harmonic Generation (SHG)
- Third Harmonic Generation (THG)
- Sum Frequency Generation (SFG)
- Difference Frequency Generation (DFG)
Processing and Handling
BBO crystals require careful handling due to their relatively high hardness and low hygroscopic nature. They should be stored in a controlled environment to prevent contamination and damage. Standard AR/HR coatings can be applied to enhance performance and protect the crystal surface.
Why Choose Shape Optics
Shape Optics provides high-quality BBO crystals with precise control over physical and optical properties. Our crystals undergo rigorous quality control to ensure they meet the highest industry standards.
Shape Optics Strength and Capabilities
- High-Quality Materials: We use the finest raw materials and advanced manufacturing processes.
- Custom Solutions: Tailored solutions to meet specific application requirements.
- Global Reach: Exporting high-quality crystals to clients worldwide.
- Expert Support: Comprehensive technical support from our experienced team.
By choosing Shape Optics, you are assured of premium products backed by exceptional service and support.