Effect of subthreshold laser radiation on the surface of lithium niobate crystals

Subject of study. This paper presents a study of the effects of high-power laser radiation at subthreshold intensity on the surface of lithium niobate crystals. We describe the physical and chemical processes responsible for the changes in the measured photoelectron spectrum of carbon following subthreshold laser exposure. Aim of study. The purpose of this paper is to determine the features of subthreshold action of high-intensity laser radiation on the surface of lithium niobate crystals. Method. The surface studies were performed using X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy, ion-beam processing, and thermal exposure. Main results. The experimental results indicate that subthreshold exposure to high-intensity laser radiation triggers various physical and chemical processes related to the decomposition of hydrocarbons adsorbed on the surface of the lithium niobate crystal. Our experimental data enabled us to establish a link between the hydrocarbon decomposition process and the nature of the laser damage to the surface of the crystal. Practical significance. Our results suggest that the laser damage thresholds for an entire class of quantum electronics materials can be increased.