Physical properties of α-BaB2O4 and β-BaB2O4 crystals promising for applications in acousto-optic devices

We examined optic, acoustic and acousto-optic properties of materials belonging to the borate family of trigonal crystals α-BaB₂O₄ and β-BaB₂O₄. Phase velocities of acoustic waves and frequency dependences of Bragg angles were calculated in the crystals. Figure of merit magnitudes were evaluated in XZ, YZ and in a few other planes of the materials. The analysis was carried out in order to find a possibility of using the materials in acousto-optic deflectors and filters operating in the visible light and also in the ultraviolet region of spectrum.