Crystal growth of LiGd1-xLuxF4 solid solutions by zone melting technique

Abstract

Mixtures (1 - x) LiGdF4 + x LiLuF4 (0.50? \leq x \leq 0.75) were melted and submitted to one zone melting cycle under a reactive HF atmosphere, aiming the study of the crystal growth of LiGd1-xLuxF4 solid solutions. Phase identification and compositional studies of the ingots were performed by scanning electron microscopy, energy dispersive X-ray spectrometry, and X-ray powder diffraction. Transparent regions of the bar related with the formation of LiGd1-xLuxF4 solid solutions were found to be enlarged proportionally to the initial amount of Lu in the mixtures. Gd segregates to the end of the ingot.