Growth and characterization of Li3VO4 single crystals by the Czochralski method

Single crystals of the low-temperature beta(II)-phase lithium vanadate (Li- 3 VO4), were grown from melts by the Czochralski method in an air atmospher e. As-grown crystal has some micro-cracks and opacity. These problems were investigated in relation to heat reservoir, ratio of Li/V and cooling rate. Through the improvements of the crystal growth conditions and environments , a crack-free region of 4 x 6 x 10 mm(3) was obtained. We have subjected t hese crystals to the X-ray diffraction studies and they are single crystall ine and belong to the orthorhombic system with the lattice parameters, a = 5.4520 Angstrom, b = 6.3284 Angstrom and c = 4.9509 Angstrom. We have studi ed the optimal conditions for the growth of beta(II)-Li3VO4 crystals by the Czochralski method. (C) 2000 Elsevier Science B.V. All rights reserved.