Optical inhomogeneity and defect formation in Mg-doped lithium niobate single crystals

We performed the complex investigation of optical inhomogeneity and defect formation processes in Mg-doped lithium niobate single crystals with different dopant concentrations including the over-threshold one (LMNO crystals). Using radiospectroscopic methods we have found the Mg impurity doping mechanism of LiNbO3 crystals on the microscopic level. It has allowed us to give the noncontradictory explanation of the optical inhomogeneity properties of LiNbO3:Mg single crystals on the macroscopic level. The recommendation on the effective utilization of LiNbO3:Mg crystals in laser beam control equipment was proposed.