Low-temperature crystal growth of Yb:Sr5F(PO4)3 without evident thermal runaway

Solid-state single crystal conversion of laser crystal Yb:Sr5F(PO4)(3) was investigated to demonstrate the ability to partially convert polycrystals into single crystals without sintering additives, at a temperature below the normal sintering temperature of the material. A threefold increase in crystal growth was observed with the application of an electric field. The enhanced densification was associated with excessive mold radiation and the seed crystal growth was facilitated by reduced grain-boundary energy in the weak electric field.