Growth of (Na, K, Li)(Nb, Ta)O-3 single crystals by solid state crystal growth

A single crystal of (Na, K, Li)(Nb, Ta)O-3 has been grown for the first time by the solid state crystal growth process. A seed crystal of < 0 0 1 >-oriented KTaO3 was embedded in a matrix of (Na, K, Li)(Nb, Ta)O-3 powder, which was then densified by hot-pressing. During annealing of the hot-pressed sample, a single crystal of (Na. K, Li)(Nb, Ta)O-3 of between 20 and 50 mu m thickness grew on the KTaO3 seed. The single crystal contained porosity incorporated front the matrix. Chemical analysis showed the single crystal to have the same composition as the matrix. A single crystal of constant thickness could be grown by adding a liquid phase sintering aid to the powder. The solid state crystal growth method is promising for the growth of single crystals of (Na. K, Li)(Nb, Ta)O-3. (c) 2007 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.