N. B. Singh, M. Gottlieb, J. Conroy
Jan 2, 1988
Citations
0
Influential Citations
25
Citations
Journal
Journal of Crystal Growth
Abstract
Abstract A novel and potentially useful class of crystals, the lead (II) halides were recognized by A.V. Zamkov et al. [Soviet Phys.-Cryst. 24 (1979) 87] for the acousto-optic and electro-optic and electro-optic devices. Lead bromide, PbBr 2 , is the most highly studied of these and was tested for its acousto-optic properties. The crystal possesses certain properties which are highly desirable for signal-processing applications. For this reason, we have developed a method to purify and grow single crystals of this compound. PbBr 2 crystals up to 26 mm in diameter and several cm in length were grown by the Bridgman method. Purification is complicated by oxidation of PbBr 2 in the presence of traces of moisture. Formation of lead chlorite [ Pb ( ClO 2 ) 2 ], mendipite (Pb 3 O 2 Cl 2 ), plattnerite (PbO 2 ) and mixed oxy halides (Pb 3 O 2 BrCl) were observed due to residual chlorine and oxygen impurities. Mendipite was the major constituent of dark bluish residue formed during the purification by directional freezing.