This book reviews techniques used to characterize non-linear optical constants of chalcogenide glasses in bulk or thin films, and presents the properties of many chalcogenide systems. A range of applications of these glasses are surveyed, including ultra-fast switching, optical limiting, second harmonic generation and electro-optic effects. Also addressed are suitability of chalcogenide films in all-optical integrated circuits, fabrication of rib as well as ridge waveguides and of fiber gratings.

The Physics and Chemistry of Solids is one of the first textbooks to discuss the physics, chemistry and materials aspects of solids from a unified viewpoint. Coverage includes both fundamental principles along with the very latest developments, such as combinatorial library synthesis, mesoporous materials, fullerenes and nanotubules, optical localization and the experimental observation of fractional electronic charge. Lucidly written and richly illustrated, this book will appeal to physicists, chemists, material scientists and engineers studying the solid state. The Physics and Chemistry of Solids features:

• A unique integrated approach to the solid state.
• A carefully structured text, with the first four chapters covering the properties of atoms in solids, whilst the remaining four concentrate on the behaviour of electrons in materials.
• Relatively self-contained chapters allowing for flexibility in the order in which they can be used.
• Many references, examples and applications, along with over 200 problems, carefully selected to test and refresh the reader’s knowledge and extend their understanding.

…this is an excellent book. Dr Paul Monk, Manchester Metropolitan University. There has been a real need for a text to cover this area. I must admit my deepest admiration for the way the author has put the text together. Dr Mike Morris, University College Cork.

…this promises to be an excellent text. Dr Anthony Powell, Heriot-Watt University.