The growth kinetics of (SmY)3(FeGa)5O12 epitaxial layers in the 920–980°C range

The growth kinetics of (SmY)₃(FeGa)₅O₁₂ garnets obtained by liquid phase epitaxy on Gd₃Ga₅O₁₂ substrates are discussed in the 920 to 980°C. range. The experiments have been carried out with the substrates in a horizontal plane and with unidirectional rotation ranging from 30 to 300 rotations per minute (rpm). A sharp increase in the growth velocity at temperatures higher than 960°C is interpreted on the basis of a diffusion-reaction theory. It is found that the diffusion constant increases steeper at higher temperatures and that the linear law of the growth rate as a function of the square root of the rotation rate holds to much higher rotation rates at these temperatures. The influence of the surface incorporation is too small to be detectable. The results are compared with published data concerning other compositions.