High temperature top seeded solution growth of stoichiometric lithium niobate LiNbO3 (sLN) with planar interface

HTTSSG growth of stoichiometric lithium niobate (sLN) from K2O containing melt was investigated in order to establish optimal condition for facet-free growth of crystals pulled along the Z=〈0001〉 axis. Elimination of pyramidal facets and flow instabilities was achieved by a gradually adjusted rotation rate program at thermal conditions characterized by the relation Gr/Re2>1 assuring a crystallization front conformed to the very low convexity requirement.

► We studied the influence of the high temperature solution growth parameters on the shape of the growth interface of the stoichiometric lithium niobate.
► Optimal condition can be achieved for the thermal condition characterized by Gr/Re2 >1.
► Gradually adjusted rotation rate program is needed to reach near planar interface during the growth process.