Deep-ultraviolet nonlinear optical crystals: concept development and materials discovery

Deep-ultraviolet (DUV, wavelength lambda < 200 nm) nonlinear optical (NLO) crystal is the core component of frequency conversion to generate DUV laser, which plays an important role in cutting-edge laser technology and fundamental science. Significant progress has been made in both experimental exploration and theoretical design in the field of DUV NLO crystals over the past three decades. In-depth insight into structure-property correlations, in particular, allows for rigorous and precise identification of DUV NLO crystals. In this article, we reviewed the current experimental and theoretical research progress while elucidating the core concepts and stringent criteria of qualified DUV phase-matched second-harmonic generation crystals. We also discussed the development of the DUV NLO structure-property correlations from first principles and how it has sparked interest in related materials, as well as future directions for obtaining potential DUV NLO crystals.

Automated summary

This article reviews the recent progress in experimental and theoretical research on deep-ultraviolet (DUV) nonlinear optical (NLO) crystals. It discusses the core concepts and stringent criteria for identifying qualified DUV phase-matched second-harmonic generation crystals. The article also explores the development of DUV NLO structure-property correlations from first principles and potential future directions for research.