Robust Conveniently Sealable Container for High-Temperature Single-Crystal Growth Out of Reactive Melts with High Vapor Pressure

The high-temperature crystal growth of intermetallics often asks for sealing of the materials in a protective atmosphere. Here, we report on the development of a convenient sealing method for alkali-containing melts, with high vapor pressure and reactivity. Our newly designed container made of high-temperature resistant steel can be sealed manually and reliably without any air exposure of the containing material. The closed container may be heated in air up to at least 1150 degrees C. The containers were applied for the development and optimization of a high-temperature self-flux growth of KFe1-xAg1+yCh2 (Ch = Se, Te) single crystals. Their crystal structure and the low-temperature electrical resistance are presented. The successful growths of these air-sensitive materials out of a reactive self-flux confirm the reliability of the container.

Automated summary

This study reports on the development of a convenient sealing method for alkali-containing melts in high-temperature containers. The newly designed container made of high-temperature resistant steel allows for manual and reliable sealing without any air exposure. The successful growth of air-sensitive materials confirms the reliability of the container.