Growth and Spectral Properties of KTb3F10 Single Crystal

doi:10.15541/jim20250230

Abstract

Abstract: KTb₃F₁₀ (KTF) crystal, characterized by its high Tb³⁺ ion concentration, low thermo-optic coefficient, and low phonon energy, demonstrates significant potential for efficient laser emission in the green and yellow wavelength ranges. However, challenges such as incongruent melting behavior, hygroscopicity of raw materials, high-temperature compositional volatility, and the corrosive nature of fluorides have severely hindered the growth of high-quality KTF crystals. This study aims to develop an effective approach to address these issues, achieve the growth of high-quality KTF crystals, and systematically characterize their optical properties. An optimized vertical Bridgman method integrated with a laser-sealed platinum crucible technique under vacuum was employed. This innovative approach effectively shielded the raw materials from water and oxygen contamination while suppressing compositional deviation during crystal growth through a sealed environment. As a result, blank KTF crystals with dimensions of ϕ16 mm × 30 mm were successfully grown, and their relevant spectral properties were characterized. The X-ray rocking curve of the (111) plane showed a full width at half maximum (FWHM) of 0.08°, indicating high crystalline perfection. Thermal gravimetric-differential scanning calorimetry (TG-DSC) indicated significant volatilization of KTF at high temperatures. Spectral tests revealed an average transmittance >90% in the 400-1600 nm range, an absorption coefficient <0.007 cm^-1 at 1064 nm, demonstrating minimal optical loss suitable for high-power laser applications. The fluorescence lifetime of approximately 4.82-4.99 ms for the Tb³⁺ion at the ⁵D₄ energy level, which is 3-5 times longer than that in oxide matrices. This superiority is attributed to the suppression of non-radiative relaxation by the low-phonon fluoride matrix, enhancing the energy storage efficiency for laser emission. This study has successfully established a viable growth method for KTF crystals, providing a new technical pathway for the controllable synthesis of KTF and other ternary fluoride materials. The results offer valuable insights for the high-efficiency application of KTF crystals in yellow-green laser emission.

Key words: KTb₃F₁₀, vertical Bridgman method, spectral properties, fluorescence lifetime

CLC Number:

LIU Guojin, HUANG Changbao, YU Xuezhou, QI Huabei, HU Qianqian, NI Youbao, WANG Zhenyou, WU Haixin. Growth and Spectral Properties of KTb₃F₁₀ Single Crystal[J]. Journal of Inorganic Materials, DOI: 10.15541/jim20250230.

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Growth and Spectral Properties of KTb₃F₁₀ Single Crystal

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