Preparation of a Quasi-One-Dimensional Nb₃S₄ Single Crystal

Abstract

Single crystals of Nb 3 S 4 were grown by chemical vapour transport in a quartz ampoule at 1000°C with iodine as the transport agent. Within three to four weeks, a batch of tiny needle-like or feather-like crystals was usually found to grow. However, sometimes sizable single crystals measuring 1×1×5 mm 3 were found among them. The crystals were characterized by optical microscopy and X-ray topography. The method of preparation needs further improvement, as the crystals appear to include many imperfections. However, the crystals prepared up to now are of sufficiently high quality for use in solid-state studies.