2. Micro-pulling-down crystal growth process

The µ-PD (hanging drop) pulling technique produces single-crystal fibers or elongated crystals of various cross-sections from a crucible of specified geometry. Numerous crucible variants have been developed by research laboratories and companies involved in µ-PD crystal growth. The basic concept of this technology is to melt a certain quantity of starting material at a temperature slightly above its melting temperature in a specific crucible (Pt, Ir, Mo, W, etc.) adapted to the melting temperature in question.

A hanging drop is formed at the bottom of the capillary die at the bottom of the crucible by the action of gravity (figure 1 a), an oriented single-crystal seed is connected...