Floating Zone Growth of YFeO_3 Single Crystals

Novel magneto-optical crystal YFeO_3(yttrium orthoferrite)was grown by the floating zone method.The growth parameters were optimized and YFeO_3 single crystal up to 7-10mm in diameter and 60mm in length was obtained.XRD patterns show that it has orthorhombic perovskite structure with a=5.5964(?),b=7.6052(?),c=5.2842(?).The solid-liquid interface is convex to the melt and the growth direction is close to[100]direction.No visible inclusions and grain boundaries are observed on the polished surface.