Infrared reflectivity is investigated as a useful tool for SIC polytype ide
ntification. The oscillator parameters (energy, oscillator strength and dam
ping) of the weak folded modes, arising from the folding of the axial optic
branch, are determined in the cases of 4H. 6H and 15R polytypes. An exampl
e of polytype identification for a sample showing polytype conversion durin
g SIC crystal growth observed in IR spectroscopy is given. (C) 1999 Elsevie
r Science S.A. All rights reserved.