The Multiplexed Storage of Permanent and Real-Time Holograms in Photorefractive BSO for Use in Image Processing and Spatial Light Modulation

Abstract

In this paper we present a technique for storing holograms in crystals of bismuth silicon oxide (BSO) that combines reversible photochromic effects with the more usual real-time photorefractive characteristics. Photochromic effects have been observed before in these sillenite crystals [1] but have generally been considered as a problem rather than as a possible mechanism for holographic storage. As the normal photorefractive (PR) behaviour is unaffected, however, simultaneous spatial multiplexing of both photorefractive (real-time) and photochromic (permanent) holograms is possible in the same crystal volume.