Ultraviolet-laser-induced desorption of atoms, ions, and molecules from lithium niobate

We report measurements of ultraviolet-laser-induced desorption of atoms, ions, and molecules from the surface of single-crystal, Y-cut lithium niobate at intensities below the plasma threshold. Particularly striking is the desorption of LiNbO3 molecules at intensities well below the threshold for the atomic and ion emission. Measurement of oxygen and niobium yields above and below the plasma threshold show changes in surface stoichiometry.