The real-time tilting laser-diode floating-zone (LDFZ) is a new variant of the floating-zone melting technique where the molten-zone is established using a set of near-IR (974 nm) lasers mounted on optical platforms that enables real-time control of angle of incidence. Compared to traditional light sources, laser diodes offer exceptional temperature stability and angled heating imparts additional stability to the molten zone. The result is a highly versatile synthetic capability not only for traditional floating zone growths, but also for travelling solvent growth of incongruent melting materials, as well as the laser pedestal growth of a wide range of specimens.

It can be operated under a gas pressure of up to 10 bar with options for growing samples under argon, air, oxygen, nitrogen and other gases at temperatures above 2400° C. Typical sample sizes that can be accommodated in this furnace are 4-8 mm in diameter and 1-10 cm in height.

Two different borides grown in the LDFZ.

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