Binary $ZnSe:Fe^{2+}$ and ternary $ZnMgSe:Fe^{2+}$ optical crystals for mid-IR applications

Abstract

In this study, binary $ZnSe:Fe^{2+}$ crystals and ternary $Zn_{1-x}Mg_{x}Se:Fe^{2+}$ crystals $(0 < x < 0.6)$ were grown by the vertical Bridgman method in graphite crucibles under high argon pressure. A comparative characterization of the structural, energetic, and optical parameters of the obtained crystals was performed. Theoretical explanations of the observed experimental characteristics, including the specific red-shift of the absorption and emission spectra with increasing solid-solution concentration, are provided. These results could be useful for the development of new laser media based on simple and complex AIIBVI crystals and for targeted engineering of their optical properties.