Arc-Transfer Method of Crystal Growth

A new method of crystal growing is reported. It consists essentially of striking a dc arc between two electrodes. The growing crystal acts as the anode and a sintered feed rod as the cathode. The establishment of the arc results in cathode material being transferred to a molten zone on the anode where crystallization takes place. Crystal growth in this manner is particularly suited to certain high-melting-point materials. Crystals which have been successfully grown by the method include the oxides of cobalt, iron, nickel, titanium, and vanadium. The arc-transfer method and its advantages over existing high-temperature techniques are illustrated by describing the production of single crystals of nickel oxide.