Flux growth of ZnS single crystals and their characterization

Cubic zinc sulfide crystals were grown by a flux method using PbCl2 as a flux. The crystals were grown in the shape of platy or bulky crystals. The surface microtopographs of the crystals were observed by a differential interference microscope. One surface (top surface) of the platy crystals showed layer growth pattern that suggested the spiral growth mechanism, whereas another surface (back surface) showed the dendritic pattern. The luminescence property of the crystals was studied by means of cathode luminescence spectroscopy. Three peaks of spectra were observed at the wavelength of about 560, 470 and 336 nm depending on the purity, growth shapes, and top or back faces of platy crystals. The intensity of these spectra was varied depending on the growth conditions. (C) 2004 Published by Elsevier B.V.