Flux growth and optoelectronic study of PbWO4 single crystals

Lead tungstate (PbWO4) single crystals have been obtained by the flux growth technique using strontium chloride (SrCl2) as flux. Optimum growth conditions are described for obtaining well-faceted transparent crystals. A thermogravimetric study shows that the compound is stable in the temperature range 25-1000 degrees C. Analysis of optical absorption normal to the ab-plane recorded at room temperature in the spectral range of 200-800 nm reveals the absorption edge, the type of transition being the allowed indirect one at 4.52 eV. The crystal has been characterized by determining useful optical and dielectric parameters.