The phase front coexistence in DKDP crystal in the field of small temperature gradient

Abstract

The results show that for a small temperature gradient G∼10⁻² K/mm perpendicular to the ferroelectric c axis there is observed only one quasiplanar phase front, slightly inclined to the plane perpendicular to the c-axis which crosses the crystal laterally in this direction. The angle β between this phase front and the (001) plane in a perfect crystal never exceeds the critical angle β*β22 degrees of arc. Vice-versa when the phase front is caught by the tilted planar defect, the phase front may fit its form with superior angle.

Keywords:

• Phase transition
• phase coexistence
• DKDP