Growth of (Na, K, Li)(Nb, Ta)O3 single crystals by solid state crystal growth

A single crystal of (Na, K, Li)(Nb, Ta)O3 has been grown for the first time by the solid state crystal growth process. A seed crystal of 〈0 0 1〉-oriented KTaO3 was embedded in a matrix of (Na, K, Li)(Nb, Ta)O3 powder, which was then densified by hot-pressing. During annealing of the hot-pressed sample, a single crystal of (Na, K, Li)(Nb, Ta)O3 of between 20 and 50 μm thickness grew on the KTaO3 seed. The single crystal contained porosity incorporated from the matrix. Chemical analysis showed the single crystal to have the same composition as the matrix. A single crystal of constant thickness could be grown by adding a liquid phase sintering aid to the powder. The solid state crystal growth method is promising for the growth of single crystals of (Na, K, Li)(Nb, Ta)O3.