Impedance spectroscopy of iron-doped lithium niobate crystals

The dc conductivity of as-grown and oxidized iron-doped lithium niobate crystals is measured by impedance spectroscopy in the temperature range 30-700 degrees C. Electron and ion conduction at lower and higher temperatures are clearly distinguished, providing relevant information for understanding and optimizing the recently developed thermo-electric oxidization that makes crystals robust against optical damage.