Studies on the growth and physical properties of nonlinear optical crystal: 2-Amino-5-nitropyridinium-toluenesulfonate

Single crystals of 2-amino-5-nitropyridinium-toluenesulfonate (2A5NPT) were grown by the slow cooling method. The unit cell dimensions were determined from single crystal X-ray diffraction studies. The thermal parameters – thermal diffusivity (α), thermal effusivity (e), thermal conductivity (K) and heat capacity (Cp) of 2A5NPT were measured by an improved photopyroelectric technique at room temperature. Single and multiple shot experiments performed on the grown crystals for the second harmonic of pulsed Nd:YAG laser (532 nm) show that it exhibits a high laser damage threshold which is a favorable property for nonlinear optical applications. Dielectric constant and dielectric loss of the grown crystal were evaluated for the frequency range 1 kHz–1 MHz in the temperature region 40–130 °C. Hardness values were measured using Vickers hardness measurement.

Graphical abstract2-Amino-5-nitropyridinium-toluenesulfonate is identified as potential candidate for efficient frequency conversion.Figure optionsDownload full-size imageDownload as PowerPoint slideResearch highlights► Single crystals of 2A5NPT have been grown from saturated solution. ► Powder test with Nd:YAG laser radiation shows a high second harmonic generation. ► Single shot and multiple shot surface laser damage thresholds are determined. ► The thermal parameters of 2A5NPT were measured by an improved photopyroelectric technique. ► The high value of damage threshold is related to the specific heat of the crystal which is reasonably high.