Crystal growth, structure and infrared absorption of co-doped (Cr, Co, Fe):ZnSe single crystals.

Experimental results of growth of (Cr, Co, Fe)-co-doped ZnSe crystals, for laser applications in the range 2-5 µm, by the vertical Bridgman method under high argon pressure are described for the first time. A comparative study involving crystallographic analysis, X-ray diffraction, scanning electron microscopy, infrared spectroscopy, and other physical characterization techniques is carried out for co-doped (Cr, Co, Fe):ZnSe crystals. Growth features, morphology and optical properties of the crystals are studied and correlated with their crystal structure. The feasibility of producing large, homogeneous optical crystals with a controlled and uniform distribution of multiple activators throughout the crystal volume is also demonstrated.