The Influence of Atmostphere on High Temperature Crystal Growth

  • Klimm, D. (Institut fur Kristallzuchtung) ;
  • Schroder, W. (Institut fur Kristallzuchtung)
  • Published : 1999.06.01

Abstract

The growth of crystals with high melting points tfus$\geq$1$600^{\circ}C$ faces the researcher with experimental problems, as the choice of materials that withstand such high t is rather limited. Many metallic construction materials are in this high t range already molten or exhibit at least a drastically reduced mechanical strength. The very few materials with tfus》1$600^{\circ}C$ as e.g. W, Mo, and partially even Ir are more or less sensitive against oxygen upon heating. Whenever possible, high t crystal growth is performed under inert atmosphere (noble gases). Unfortunately, any oxides are not thermodynamically stable under such conditions, as reduction takes place within such atmosphere. A thoroughly search for suitable growth conditions has to be performed, that are on the one side "oxidative enough" to keep the oxides stable and on the other side "reductive enough" to avoid destruction of constructive parts of the crystal growth assembly. The relevant parameters are t and the oxygen partial pressure pO2. The paper discusses quantitatively relevant properties of interesting oxides and construction materials and ways to forecast their behavior under growth conditions.r growth conditions.

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