A Simple Flame Fusion Apparatus

Abstract

THE need for large single crystals of refractoryoxides has been ever increasing in recent years. In many instances further technological advances are being hampered by the lack of materials of suitable purity and perfection. One of the major sources of contamination of materials prepared at high temperature is the container in which the material is heated. The flame fusion technique is one high-temperature crystal growth method which overcomes the container problem as the material under investigation acts as its own support. A rather complete review of the advantages, limitations, and operation of flame fusion furnaces is given by Popov1 in a book edited by Shubnikov and Sheftal.