To make devices based on acousto-optic modulators (AOM) work clearly and smoothly, AOM should be created from the most effective materials. Team of scientists from the Karpenko Physico-Mechanical Institute of the NAS of Ukraine (Karpenko PhMI) is working on finding such materials. Scientists have an ambitious goal to establish the acousto-optical (AO) efficiency of new and unexplored crystalline materials. Their project “Experimental-theoretical study and prediction of photoelastic properties of crystalline materials for electromagnetic radiation control devices” won the NRFU call and received funding of more than 6 000 000 UAH.
What are these crystalline materials?
Supervisor of this project is a scientist from the Karpenko PhMI, Professor Bogdan c He explained that to modulate light and build the necessary devices for different sectors of the economy, electro-optical or acousto-optical (AO) effect can be used. Scientists study the acousto-optical efficiency of new or unexplored crystalline materials in the project.
The main task of the project is to find materials in which the imperfections are minimized. Bogdan explained that quartz crystals, which, unfortunately, have low acousto-optical efficiency, are often used in electromagnetic radiation control devices nowadays. «We predict that, for example, some types of langasite will have much higher AO efficiency, will be more temperature stable and will have significantly lower “attenuation” of acoustic waves. Other important characteristics of these crystals, such as high electromechanical coupling coefficients, will simplify the construction of the light and sound conduit (AO cells)» – he said.
Experimental studies of crystals of the langasite group are extremely laborious. In other words, to find one promising crystal is equal to find a grain of gold in a bucket of sand. That is why it is important for scientists to narrow the “search area”. To do this, they use a preliminary modeling of the photoelastic properties of crystals and calculate their acousto-optical characteristics.
A special computer program for modeling was purchased at the expense of the project. The scientist noted that this program would significantly reduce the search time for the most effective crystals of this group.
A project team is a group of real professionals in the field of creation and research of crystalline materials. Due the fact that they won the NRFU call, they have an opportunity to work in Ukraine. Ivan Franko National University of Lviv is a subcontractor of the project, their experience in creating new materials is extremely helpful.
Professor Bogdan Mytsyk advised fellow scientists to take part in the calls more boldly. He emphasized that victories and new opportunities strengthen creative teams and raise Ukrainian science to the proper level.