Project Title:

A Method to Provide Lower-Cost Crystal Properties Study Samples

08.08-0438A
A Method to Provide Lower-Cost Crystal
	Properties Study Samples
Scientific Materials Corp.
P.O. Box 786
Bozeman, MT  59715
Ralph L. Hutcheson (406-585-3772) 
LaRC -- NAS1-18639

Abstract:

	 There is need for crystal samples in studies of new laser materials. Current crystal
growth systems are expensive, and hence the experimenter normally limits the test
variables. The flame-fusion crystal growth process was investigated as a means to
provide lower-cost study samples as compared to currently available commercial sources.
	The Phase I work demonstrated a method to produce lower-cost spectroscopic study
samples and a method to provide accurate analytical data on these samples. It also
has shown the need to investigate four areas:  causes of cracking and frothing in
YAG (yttrium-aluminum-garnet), improvements in the analytical methods to determine
accurately the deposition coefficient for dopants in common laser host materials,
extension of the growth methods to advanced laser materials, and the influence of
highly purified raw materials.

Potential Commercial Application:

Potential Commercial Application: The applications would be in providing lower-cost,
higher-perfection laser rods, new laser design data, and a source of new laser-rod
study samples at a reasonable cost.