The compound, ZrW2O8, exhibits an unusual negative coefficient of thermal e
xpansion of approximately -10 ppm/degrees C over ambient temperatures. The
incongruent decomposition point-and narrow thermal stability limits of ZrW2
O8 from 1105 to 1257 degrees C severely restrict crystal growth conditions.
However, single crystals of ZrW2O8 having masses on the order of a gram we
re grown by an unusual layered self-flux technique. Crystals were character
ized by X-ray diffraction, inductively coupled plasma emission spectroscopy
, dilatometry, and etching behavior. Details of the crystal growth techniqu
e and possible growth mechanisms are discussed. (C) 2000 Elsevier Science B
.V. All rights reserved.