Growth of (Na, K, Li)(Nb, Ta)O3 single crystals by solid state crystal growth

A single crystal of (Na, K, Li)(Nb, Ta)O 3 has been grown for the first time by the solid state crystal growth process. A seed crystal of 〈0 0 1〉-oriented KTaO 3 was embedded in a matrix of (Na, K, Li)(Nb, Ta)O 3 powder, which was then densified by hot-pressing. During annealing of the hot-pressed sample, a single crystal of (Na, K, Li)(Nb, Ta)O 3 of between 20 and 50 μm thickness grew on the KTaO 3 seed. The single crystal contained porosity incorporated from the matrix. Chemical analysis showed the single crystal to have the same composition as the matrix. A single crystal of constant thickness could be grown by adding a liquid phase sintering aid to the powder. The solid state crystal growth method is promising for the growth of single crystals of (Na, K, Li)(Nb, Ta)O 3 .