Optimization of thermal environment during crystal growth of large‐sized Nd:YAG by Temperature Gradient Technique

A finite‐element model is employed to analysis the thermal environments in Temperature Gradient Technique (TGT) furnace during the growth of large‐sized Nd:YAG crystal. The obtained results show that when the crucible is located at the lower position inside of the heater, a flatter solid‐liquid interface is established, which makes it easier to obtain the core‐free Nd:YAG crystal. Meanwhile, the lower crucible position can induce higher axial temperature gradient, which is beneficial to the release of latent heat. (© 2007 WILEY‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim)