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Published on: February 15, 2016
Na11Ta8P7O43: (Ta8O33) bi-capped triangular prisms connected by PO4 groups resulting in a phase-matched second
1Beijing Center for Crystal Research and Development, Key Laboratory of Functional Crystals and Laser Technology, Technical Institute of Physics and Chemistry, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100190, China.
A new tantalum phosphate crystal, Na11Ta8P7O43, was synthesized for nonlinear optics. This material exhibits moderate second harmonic generation and good optical transmittance, making it a potential candidate for optical applications.
Area of Science:
- Materials Science
- Solid State Chemistry
- Crystallography
Background:
- Developing advanced nonlinear optical (NLO) crystals is crucial for technologies like frequency conversion.
- Existing NLO materials often face limitations in performance, stability, or processing.
- Tantalum-based compounds are explored for their NLO properties.
Purpose of the Study:
- To synthesize and characterize a novel tantalum phosphate crystal for NLO applications.
- To investigate the structural and optical properties of Na11Ta8P7O43.
- To evaluate its potential as a phase-matchable NLO material.
Main Methods:
- Single crystal growth using a self-flux method with NaH2PO4 and Na2HPO4.
- X-ray diffraction for crystal structure determination (monoclinic, Cc space group).
- Optical property measurements including second harmonic generation (SHG) and transmittance spectrum.
Main Results:
- Successfully synthesized Na11Ta8P7O43 with moderate second harmonic response.
- Unique crystal structure featuring (Ta8O33) bi-capped triangular prisms connected by phosphate groups.
- Demonstrated phase-matchable SHG, shorter UV cutoff edge than LiTaO3 and KTiOPO4, and high visible-to-near-infrared transmittance.
Conclusions:
- Na11Ta8P7O43 is a promising new NLO crystal with a unique structure.
- Its properties suggest potential for applications in frequency conversion.
- Further research is warranted to optimize its performance and explore device integration.
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