Abstract
6 MeV electron irradiation of LiNbO3:Fe3 + crystals are shown to fill the Fe3 + electron traps (Fe3 ++e ← Fe2 +). Illumination in the Fe2 + absorption band causes the bleaching of this band with a quantum efficiency nearly equal to unity. Excess short circuit photocurrent corresponds to the excess charge stored in this ferroelectric electret. Holographic write-read characteristics are better than in reduced LiNbO3:Fe, since the crystals are absorbent during writing and transparent during recording.