Growth of oxide laser crystals

A description of the growth of research and development type crystals, as well as scaling the process to industrial level is described. The best understood and most practiced technique in commercial crystal growth is described along with its advantages and limitations. The effects of composition and properties of individual crystals on process variables, growth parameters, and thermal designs are described. The crystal quality enhancement and control by recognizing, understanding, and minimizing or elimination of crystal defects are described. Emphasis is given to material properties that play a role in the selection of growth parameters for individual host systems such as garnet-based or corundum-based laser crystals.