Investigation of seeded vertical gradient freeze (VGF) growth of CdZnTe bulk crystals

Balbaşi Ö. B., Ünal M., Genç A. M., Çelik G., Parlak M., Turan R.

Journal of Crystal Growth, vol.584, 2022 (SCI-Expanded) identifier identifier

  • Publication Type: Article / Article
  • Volume: 584
  • Publication Date: 2022
  • Doi Number: 10.1016/j.jcrysgro.2022.126573
  • Journal Name: Journal of Crystal Growth
  • Journal Indexes: Science Citation Index Expanded (SCI-EXPANDED), Scopus, Academic Search Premier, PASCAL, Aerospace Database, Chimica, Communication Abstracts, Compendex, INSPEC, Metadex, Civil Engineering Abstracts
  • Keywords: A2, Growth from melt, Gradient freeze technique, Seed crystals, B1, CdZnTe, B2, Semiconducting II-VI materials, B3, Radiation detectors, DETECTORS, CDTE
  • Middle East Technical University Affiliated: Yes

Abstract

© 2022 Elsevier B.V.Due to the requirement for superheating above the melting point in the homogenization process of CdZnTe material, complete seed melting remains as a significant problem for the seeded vertical gradient freeze (VGF) growth of CdZnTe. In addition, due to the typical low single crystal yields in VGF growth of CdZnTe, obtaining single crystal seed material with desired geometries could be considered as a challenge. In this study, single crystal CdZnTe seeds of cylindrical geometry with 10 mm diameter and up to 30 mm length were successfully obtained using a Computer Numerical Control (CNC) cutting system. Moreover, to avoid complete seed melting, a novel design of the growth crucible and support system along with radiation shielding around seed region is employed. Temperature profiling and growth experiments were conducted to observe seed melting and seeded crystal growth of CdZnTe. Initial results of a seeded VGF growth using a single crystal CdZnTe seed is reported.