Growth and characterization of new oxide and fluoride crystals for optical applications

High quality oxide and fluoride single crystals for optical applications have been grown by the Czochralski technique. Lattice parameter investigation of grown Gd₃Yb _x Ga_5−x O₁₂ suggested that this crystal will be a superior material as substrate for optical isolators with large Faraday effect. Growth conditions of (La,Sr)(Al,Ta)O₃ single crystals are discussed. These crystals have excellent lattice matching with GaN, a promising material for optoelectronic devices. Ce-doped fluoride single crystals—LiCaAIF₆, LiYF₄ and BaLiF₃—have been grown for solid state UV laser applications. Growth results and optical characterization are discussed.