Linear and nonlinear optical, mechanical, electrical and surface studies of a novel nonlinear optical crystal – Manganese mercury thiocyanate (MMTC)

• MMTC crystallizes in tetragonal crystal system.
• Plasma energy, Penngap, electronic polarizability calculated for the first time.
• Z-scan study confirms the enhancement in the third order nonlinearities.
• Surface parameters were calculated using AFM analysis.

The highly efficient nonlinear optical single crystal of manganese mercury thiocyanate has been grown from slow evaporation solvent technique. The second harmonic generation and optical transmittance of the grown crystal are studied by Kurtz and Perry powder technique and spectroscopic absorbance spectrum. Mechanical behaviour is analyzed using Vickers microhardness test. The dielectric response of the grown crystal is studied as a function of the temperature and the results are discussed. Further, electronic properties such as plasma energy, Penngap, Fermi energy and electronic polarizability are evaluated. Third order nonlinear optical studies are performed using by single beam Z-scan technique using Nd:YAG laser and parameters such as nonlinear refractive index n2, absorption co-efficient β and nonlinear optical susceptibility χ(3) are evaluated for the grown crystal. The surface of the grown crystal is analyzed with field emission scanning electron microscope and atomic force microscope analyses.

It is observed from the AFM image that crystal surface possesses valleys and hillocks. It is well known that a large number of peaks and valleys in an image significantly affect the average roughness (Sa) and root mean square (Sq) values.Figure optionsDownload as PowerPoint slide