Synthesis, characterization, and applications of shaped single crystals

In this paper we shall review techniques for the growth of single crystal, mostly of insulating material, which are shaped during the growth process. In particular, we shall focus on the growth of single-crystal fibers of optically activated materials; the emphasis will be placed on the so-called Laser Heated Pedestal Growth (LHPG) method of pulling crystalline fibers. LHPG offers a number of logistical advantages which can be exploited as a tool for materials research. Progress in the synthesis of materials using LHPG is described, as are spectroscopic techniques which are employed in characterizing the optical and physical properties of the crystal fibers obtained by this method. Fiz. Tverd. Tela (St. Petersburg) 41, 770–773 (May 1999) Published in English in the original Russian journal. Reproduced here with stylistic changes by the Translation Editor.