Optical properties of lithium niobate crystals and
their applications in quantum optics(Invited, Cover Paper）

doi:10.3969/j.issn.1007-5461.2026.05.001

Abstract

Abstract: Lithium niobate (LiNbO3, LN) crystals have become indispensable in nonlinear optics, integrated photonics, and quantum optics due to their exceptional optical properties, such as strong second-order nonlinear optical effects, electro-optic effects, photorefractive effects, and photovoltaic effects. LN crystals possess a high second-order nonlinear polarization coefficient, which enables efficient second-harmonic generation, frequency conversion, and spontaneous parametric down-conversion. Recent advancements in lithium niobate on insulator (LNOI) technology have further expanded the application of LN crystals in integrated photonic devices, establishing them as one of the critical platforms for quantum optical systems. This paper provides an overview of the basic optical properties of LN crystals, with a focus on their quantum optical application status and technical challenges, including spontaneous parametric down-conversion, optical frequency comb generation, and quantum waveguide design, and aims to provide reference for the further application and development of LN materials in quantum information technology. In addition, the paper also explores the potential of the LNOI platform in realizing efficient quantum optical devices, with particular attention to its application prospects in quantum state manipulation and the construction of quantum communication networks.

Key words: lithium niobate, optical properties, nonlinear optical effects, quantum optics, lithium niobate on insulator

CLC Number:

O431.2

BAO Yunjia , GUO Ruiqiang , ZHANG Yifei , CHEN Kunfeng , XUE Dongfeng . Optical properties of lithium niobate crystals and their applications in quantum optics(Invited, Cover Paper）[J]. Chinese Journal of Quantum Electronics, 2026, 43(5): 669-689.

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Optical properties of lithium niobate crystals and their applications in quantum optics(Invited, Cover Paper）

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