Physical vapor transport and crystal growth of GeSexTe1−x solid solutions

Physical vapor transport studies of GeSexTe1–x (x = 0.1, 0.2, 0.3, and 0.4) solid solutions demonstrated, that individual, large single crystals of these materials can be grown in closed ampoules. A compositional analysis of the grown crystals revealed, that the mass transport (crystal growth) process under steady‐state conditions is pseudo‐congruent and controlled by diffusion processes in the source material. From these experiments, the degree of nonstoichiometry (Ge‐vacancy concentrations) of GeSexTe1–x single crystals could be estimated. The effects of the cubic to rhombohedral phase transformation during cooling on the microstructure and morphology of the grown mixed crystals are observed. This work provides the basis for subsequent defect studies and electrical measurements on these crystals.