Crystal optical studies of lithium tetraborate

Using the HAUP-type universal polarimeter and the Senarmont technique, detailed crystal optical studies of Li₂B₄O₇, lithium tetraborate, are carried out. It is shown that the optical indicatrix rotation and the optical activity are absent from the crystal, in accordance with symmetry considerations. Measurements of optical birefringence reveal the existence of a regular staircase-like temperature behaviour in the whole range under investigation (290-480 K), a hysteresis character of the birefringence under cycling temperature and a pronounced thermooptical memory effect. The origins of the above phenomena are analysed, in particular the possible influence of the pyroelectric effect and systematic errors of the optical equipment. A conclusion is drawn that the main features of the birefringence are well explained by an incommensurately modulated super-structure which is at present a matter of debate. The peculiarities of the optical properties of lithium tetraborate are compared with those of incommensurate crystals known from the literature.