SOLID-STATE GROWTH OF SOME I-III-VI2-CHALCOPYRITE CRYSTALS

Solid state growth of some I-III-VI2 chalcopyrite crystals has been carried out using the respective I2VI and III2VI3 binary compounds as the starting materials. In the cases of CuInS2, CuInSe2 and CuInTe2, highly densified ( 〉 90% of theoretical density) and oriented crystals can be obtained by preparing a highly condensed pressed compact of a finely powdered stoichiometric mixture and utilizing a closely fitted carbon crucible during growth. In the cases of CuGaS2, AgGaS2 and AgGaSe2, however, highly densified but disoriented polycrystals are obtained. The result is discussed with the aid of respective pseudo-binary phase diagrams. © 1990, Elsevier Science Publishers B.V. (North-Holland). All rights reserved.