Fe x Ga 1− x BO 3 single crystals: synthesis and characterization

A series of Fe x Ga1−x BO3 single crystals in the concentration range 0 ≤ x ≤ 1 has been synthesized by solution in the melt method. In order to determine optimal crystallization regimes, two settings have been worked out and applied in the present study: the first one, for precise differential thermal analysis and the second one, for the probe method. X-ray fluorescence and X-ray diffraction analysis have allowed accurate determination of iron contents and lattice parameters for synthesized crystals with different x. Computer-assisted EPR studies of Fe3+ have revealed a high perfection of the crystals: low degree of disorder and the absence of twinning.