LaB6 crystals from fused salt electrolysis

Abstract

Purple crystals of LaB6 with high melting point (2500 °C) have been elecrotrodeposited from an oxyfluoride melt consisting of La2O3–B2O3–LiF–Li2O under an N2 atmosphere. The growth of LaB6 crystals has been observed under a controlled electrodeposition process. The cell set-up employed for the electrodeposition consists of a graphite crucible acting both as the cell container and anode and a centrally placed Mo rod acting as cathode. A stainless steel retort was employed to hold the graphite crucible and fix the electrodes under an N2 atmosphere. The pre-treatment applied to the electrolyte composition before electrolysis has been described. Characterization of the crystalline product by chemical analysis, XRD studies and other physical measurements is reported.