Growth of α-NiSO4 • 6H2O crystals at high rates

The high-rate growth of nickel sulfate hexahydrate NiSO4 center dot 6H(2)O (alpha-NSH) crystals up to 120 x 120 x 65 mm 3 in size is described for the first time. The data on the distribution of related impurities in the {011} and {001} growth sectors of alpha-NSH crystals grown at different rates are reported. The transmission spectra of both growth sectors of these crystals are obtained. The structural quality and the optical properties of rapidly and slowly grown alpha-NSH crystals are compared. It is established that the {011} growth sector of crystals grown at rates exceeding 5 mm/day shows the best characteristics for application in UV filters. (C) 2005 Pleiades Publishing, Inc.