9617031 Keszler The objectives of this work are to prepare and study new inorganic solids that will function as nonlinear optical (NLO) materials or as hosts for laser and other luminescent ions and to develop an understanding of the factors that control physical properties. Optical and thermal properties, ionic conductivity's, and crystal structures of a new family of noncentrosymmetric aluminum borates will be examined. The generation of new silicate fluorides containing alkaline-earth metal atoms will provide opportunities to realize new hosts having unique oxoanion oxide environments for substitution of luminescent ions. A detailed understanding of the relationships between crystal structure and optical emission characteristics of the gallium and indium ions will be developed through optical, photoconductivity, and nuclear magnetic resonance studies of several doped and stoichiometric compounds in powder and single-crystal form. %%% The focus of this project is on the preparation and characterization of novel, crystalline inorganic materials that exhibit nonlinear optical properties or have the potential to function as hosts for luminescent ions, including ones that can be induced to laser. The design and synthesis of materials with the ability to manipulate light is important in a variety of endeavors, including telecommunications, medical applications of lasers, collision avoidance systems for automobiles, and military systems. ***
