Potassium beryllium fluoroborate (KBBF) crystal is a nonlinear optical material that is used in a variety of applications. It is known for its ability to generate deep-ultraviolet coherent light. In addition to its use in the medical industry, KBBF has also been investigated for its potential to replace excimer lasers in the semiconductor lithography field.
The KBBF family of crystals contains several different atomic species. However, they are not easily grown thick enough. This makes it difficult to use KBBF crystals in applications where laser beam quality is crucial.
Recently, research has successfully grown a platelike KBBF crystal. To date, these crystals are not available outside China. Using KBBF, researchers have demonstrated a second harmonic generation of 800 nm fundamental light. They have also developed a technique to produce DUV light below 200 nm. These discoveries have led to new developments in deep-UV lasers.
KBBF crystals are also important in photoemission spectrometers, Raman-scattering spectrometers, and scanning-tunnel microscopes. Chen’s laboratory has developed equipment and safety procedures for the KBBF crystal. His lab has an enormous head start in the KBBF crystal research field. KBBF has been an invaluable asset in physics research.
In 2009, Chen’s institute ramped up production to 50 KBBF crystals. In 2010, they increased their production to 100 KBBF crystals. Their institute is now focused on pushing the KBBF towards practicality.
Currently, the KBBF crystal is only usable in a narrow range of wavelengths. Researchers are working to extend the wavelength range. KBBF crystals could offer an all-solid-state solution to producing deep-UV coherent light.
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