Microstructure and physical properties of CaF2-MgO eutectics produced by the Bridgman method

The microstructure and crystallographic orientation relationship of CaF2-Mg O eutectics produced for the first time were characterized by electron micr oscopy, The eutectic contains single-crystal MgO rods (similar to 0.7 mu m in size, spaced similar to 8 mu m) oriented parallel to the cubic axis of a CaF2 matrix. The rods present low-energy {100}(CaF2)//{111}(MgO) interface s. Light guiding was experimentally proved and considered fur possible opti cal applications. Crack propagation was also studied to show the potential improvement in fracture toughness through crack deflection at the interface s.