Dynamic Phase-Mapping of Domain Nucleation in MgO:LiNbO₃ Crystal by Digital Holographic Interferometry

The quantitative phase-mapping of the domain nucleation in MgO:LiNbO₃ crystals is presented by using the digital holographic interferometry. An unexpected peak phase at the beginning of the domain nucleation is observed and it is lowered as the spreading of the domain nucleus. The existence of the nucleus changes the moving speed of the domain wall by pinning it for 3s. Such in-situ quantitative analysis of the domain nucleation process is a key to optimizing domain structure fabrication.