Piezoelectric Ca3TaAl3Si2O14 (CTAS): High quality 2-in. single-crystal growth and electro-elastic properties from room to high (650 °C) temperature

Ca3TaAl3Si2O14 (CTAS) single crystal is attracting much attention for high temperature sensor applications due to its high electrical resistivity and excellent piezoelectric properties. However, it is a big challenge to grow high quality CTAS single crystals. In this work, its growth conditions are optimized. Crack- and inclusion-free crystals are grown, achieving even a high quality single crystal with a width over 2 in. In addition, the temperature dependence of electro-elastic properties is systematically studied. This crystal presents a high thermal stability of structure and electro-elastic properties. The dielectric loss is less than 3% from room temperature to 650 °C. Therefore, CTAS single crystal is promising for high temperature sensor applications.