Crystal Growth and Properties of Mica-Like Potassium Niobates

Large single crystals of and can be grown by Czochralski pulling from the melt. In the case of a small amount of excess is used to avoid incongruent crystallization. Both materials show pronounced cleavage very similar to that of mica. The electrical properties of are also very similar to those of mica, making this material a possible mica substitute as well as being an interesting new dielectric material in its own right. is orthorhombic Pmmm , with , not the previously reported perovskite structure. Other characteristics determined include optical, mechanical, and chemical properties. When exposed to atmospheres between about 25 and 85% relative humidity, becomes a trihydrate, with higher hydration above about 85% relative humidity. Optical, electrical, and structural properties of all three forms of are described.