Growth and characterization of pure Li6Gd(BO3)3 single crystals by the modified Bridgman method

Pure Li6Gd(BO3)3 single crystals with maximum dimension up to 23 mm in diameter and 180 mm in length have been grown successfully for the first time by the modified Bridgman method in platinum crucibles in the air atmosphere. The phase was checked by X-ray powder diffraction (XRD) and the symmetry belongs to monoclinic system with P21/c space group. The analysis of main compositions indicates a depletion of Gd and an excessiveness of Li or B in the tail of as-grown crystals ingots. It was found that the as-grown crystal has high optical transmittance within wavelength concerned. Photoluminescence (PL) and X-ray stimulated luminescence (XSL) of the as-grown LGBO crystals at room temperature were measured and discussed.