Growth, optical and spectroscopic studies of l-cysteine doped KDP single crystals

Abstract

Optically cleared single crystals of pure and l-cysteine doped potassium dihydrogen phosphate (KDP) possessing excellent nonlinear optical properties have been grown from aqueous solution by the slow evaporation technique. The lattice parameters of the grown crystals are confirmed by single crystal X-ray analysis. The well defined sharp peaks in the powder X-ray diffraction pattern reveals the crystalline perfection and the EDAX spectrum confirms the presence of l-cysteine dopant in the lattice of the parent crystal. The UV–visible spectral study confirm the improved transparency for the doped crystal, ascertaining the inclusion of metal ion in the lattice. Photoluminescence studies indicate that the grown crystals have a green fluorescence emission. FTIR spectral analysis carried out on the materials confirm the presence of functional groups. The vickers hardness test brings forth higher hardness value for doped KDP as compared to pure KDP crystal.