Twin structure in Yb:YAl3(BO3)4crystal

Abstract

Twin structure is a defect in the self-frequency-doubling laser crystal material Yb:YAl3(BO3)4(YbYAB). Based on atomic force microscopy (AFM) observations, a check-like twin structure in YbYAB crystals is found. This kind of twin structure has three twin composition planes: (10\bar{1}1), (0\bar{1}11) and (\bar{1}101). These three twin composition planes result in a series of twin boundaries in two directions, forming a check-like pattern on each face. From the orientation of the chemical etching pits on each side of the twin boundary, it is found that the twin element is `twin plane ⊥yaxis', alternatively indicated as `twin plane {11\bar{2}0}'. The two single crystals composing the twin are a right form and a left form. This kind of twin is similar to the Brazil twin found in quartz.