Enhanced non-linear optical response in hybrid GSPN crystals: Structural, optical and dielectric analysis

Transparent and well defined crystals of GSPN series have been grown with alpha-glycine in simultaneous presence of two nitrates (NaNO₃ and KNO₃). Transparent and well defined crystals (22 mm × 13 mm × 5 mm) have been obtained in 3-4 weeks time by slow cooling. Addition of a strong acid (0.5% HCl) during growth is seen to enhance solubility, SHG efficiency by 2.78 times, Meyer's hardness index by 1.7 times and M.P by 42 °C of that of GSPN crystals. The SHG efficiency of acid added-GSPN has been found to be more than that of KDP crystal. GSPN is found to crystallize in orthorhombic symmetry and the presence of chemical components/groups has been identified by CHNS, EDAX and NMR analysis. Comparative FTIR and Laser Raman analysis shows the presence of active peaks indicating the molecule with a lack of center of symmetry. The UV spectrum shows existence of wide transparency window suitable for optoelectronic applications with band gap energy of about 5.72 eV. The crystals exhibit linear I-V characteristic followed by switching at 41 V/cm. The dielectric loss was seen to decrease exponentially with applied frequency from 100 Hz to 1 MHz.