Scientists from the National University of Science and Technology MISIS have patented a method for thinning lithium niobate and tantalate crystals. These materials are needed to create sensitive sensors and resonators — for example, for navigation systems, communication, or medical devices. The problem is that crystals are fragile, and it is difficult to make them thin without destroying their internal structure. The new method solves this problem.
The method consists of three steps. First, the plate is placed in a furnace and heated to 600–1100 degrees in an oxygen-free environment. The internal pressure is minimal — almost like in space. The process takes four hours. Then, a laser is used. It cuts off excess material with high precision. Finally, the crystal is sent back to the furnace, but now at 400 degrees, and kept there for only an hour.
The result is a thin plate with a very smooth surface. The internal structure of the crystal is not disturbed. This means that sensors can be made more compact and sensitive without losing accuracy.
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