Synthesis and Investigation of Large Crystals of (Cr1-xTMx)3B4 with TM=Ti, V, Nb, Ta, Mo, and W

Single crystals of the ternary borides (Cr1-xTMx)3B4 (TM=Ti, V, Nb, Ta, Mo, W) were grown by the flux method using molten aluminum as a solvent. The substances were subjected to chemical analyses and measurements of the unit cell parameters. Crystals of (Cr1-xTMx)3B4 were grown in the form of thick platelets with large {010} planes. The largest crystals obtained show maximum dimensions of about 6x0.4x0.4 mm3. The solid solubilities of Mo and W in Cr3B4 are discussed. In addition, measurements of microhardness and electrical resistivity were carried out, and the oxidation resistance at high temperature in air was studied