This book brings together and couples results from electromagnetic, mechanics, thermodynamics, solid state physics, chemistry, optics, and materials science to provide a coherent picture of materials science, in particular their optical properties. It discusses the underlying physical basis of the each property, including constituents, bonding, and structural order. The book also discusses units and unit conversions, provides simple models for estimating properties or extrapolating data as well as examples of how to fit data using these models. Two chapters are completely devoted to practical problems in optical systems-- Writing for graduate students, researchers, and practicing engineers, Japanese and Indian physicists explain the optical characteristics of materials that are used in devices to manipulate light. They begin by setting out some basic theory on the optical properties of solids. Then they consider in turn materials for ultraviolet, visible, and infrared light; nonlinear optics; solid-state lasers; optical waveguides; thin films; and nanophotonics. Annotation ©2012 Book News, Inc., Portland, OR (booknews.com) The definition of optical material has expanded in recent years, largely because of IT advances that have led to rapid growth in optoelectronics applications. Helping to explain this evolution, Optical Materials and Applications presents contributions from leading experts who explore the basic concepts of optical materials and the many typical applications in which they are used. An invaluable reference for readers ranging from professionals to technical managers to graduate engineering students, this book covers everything from traditional principles to more cutting-edge topics. It also details recent developmental trends, with a focus on basic optical properties of material. Key topics include:Fundamental optical properties of solidsFundamental optical materials (including thin films) from both linear and nonlinear perspectivesUse of bulk materials in the design of various modificationsApplication of optical thin films in artificial componentsFormation of artificial structures with sub-wavelength dimensionsUse of physical or chemical techniques to control lightwave phase One-, two-, and three-dimensional structures used to control dispersion of materials for nanophotonicsProgress of the optical waveguide, which makes optical systems more compact and highly efficientThis book carefully balances coverage of theory and application of typical optical materials for ultraviolet, visible and infrared, non-linear optics, solid state lasers, optical waveguides, optical thin films and nanophotonics. It addresses both basic ideas and more advanced topics, making it an equally invaluable resource for beginners and active researchers in this growing field.
