Photorefractive Effect

Summary

The photorefractive effect is a nonlinear optical effect seen in certain crystals and other materials that respond to light by altering their refractive index. This effect can be used to store temporary, erasable holograms and is useful for holographic data storage. It can also be used to create a phase conjugate mirror or an optical spatial soliton. The last 10 years have seen an upsurge of interest in photorefractive applications because of several advances in the synthesis and growth of new and sensitive materials. This chapter is a collection of many of the most important recent developments in photorefractive effects and materials. Special attention has been paid to describe the up‐to‐date review of recent scientific findings and advances in photorefractive materials and devices.