CRYSTAL-GROWTH AND CHARACTERIZATION OF UNI4 B-11 TERNARY COMPOUND

Large single crystals of the ternary intermetallic boride (UNi4B)-B-11 have been grown by the ''tri-arc'' Czochralski technique and characte rised by means of optical microscopy, X-ray diffraction, and electron- probe microanalysis. Parameters of the crystal growth, such as seed ro tation and translation as well as crucible rotation, have been optimis ed. The best result has been obtained without any crucible rotation, 5 mm/h seed translation and 12 rpm seed rotation. The distribution of b oron has been carefully studied. Electron-probe microanalysis revealed the presence of small particles rich in boron. Low-temperature proper ties of the single crystals have been characterised by means of resist ivity, magnetic susceptibility and heat-capacity measurements.