An Er-doped LaP5O14 ferroelastic crystal has been studied by synchrotr
on radiation white beam x-ray topography. A set of normal ferroelastic
domains is revealed in topographs by the intense contrast at the doma
in walls and the temperature dependence of the wall contrast is shown
to be in good agreement with that expected from the structural conside
ration. In addition to growth bands and growth sector boundaries, a ty
pe of abnormal boundary is observed, and the contrast varies with the
occurrence of phase transitions. A detailed discussion on experimental
results is given in terms of structural and symmetry analyses.