TOP-SEEDED SOLUTION GROWTH OF LIB3O5

We report on the top-seeded solution growth of LiB3O5 from an excess B 2O3 Solution. Parameters investigated include the Li2O/B2O3 ratio, rot ation rate, pulling rate, cooling rate, and seed direction. With caref ul control of the above parameters, we have grown clear crystals of 25 X 30 X 20 mm in size. Selected nonlinear optical properties of these crystals are reported. Observations concerning the occurrence of unsta ble growth (inclusions, hopper growth) are discussed, and methods to e liminate the unstable growth are suggested.