Shape-controlled crystal growth of Y$_3$Al$_5$O$_{12}$:Ce single crystals with application of micro-pulling-down method and Mo crucibles, and their scintillation properties

Abstract

The technology to grow single crystals of the required shape directly from a melt has been researched extensively and developed in various industries and research fields. In this study, a micro-pulling-down method and a Mo crucible were applied to the shape-controlled crystal growth of Y$_3$Al$_5$O$_{12}$:Ce (YAG:Ce). Three types of Mo crucibles with different die shapes were developed. Stable crystal growth in the same shape as the die was achieved, and scintillation properties that are comparable with those of the previously reported YAG:Ce were obtained.