Phase Equilibrium and Crystal Growth Studies on AgGaSe2 and Related Nonlinear Optical Materials.

摘要

This report summarizes a 31 month research program carried out at the Center for Materials Research, Standford University. The principal objectives were 1) to improve the crystal growth technology for AgGaSe2 to facilitate the growth and yield of useful size nonlinear optical elements; 2) to gain an increased understanding of the optical scattering precipitates that form in melt-grown crystals; 3) to determine the cause of residual optical absorption remaining after post-growth heat-treatment; 4) to refine the heat-treatment procedure so as to eliminate residual optical absorption; and 5) to elucidate the chemistry and thermodynamics of the heat-treatment procedure. The first four objectives were met successfully and are described fully. The final objective, the topic of a graduate student dissertation research project is still ongoing, and progress to date is described in detail. Keywords: Silver selenogallate, AgGaSe2, Nonlinear optical materials; Infrared materials; Optical defects. (JES)