Growth of high quality AlN single crystals and their optical properties

Growth and optical properties of high quality AlN single crystals grown by physical vapor transport using powder sublimation is presented. Crystallinity, incorporated impurities and their effects on the optical properties are evaluated for different crucible materials and growth environments. A significant reduction of impurity incorporation was achieved using a two-step growth process in a TaN crucible. Crystal defects and the effect of incorporated impurities on the optical properties have been analyzed by their characteristic photoluminescence and absorption, Raman- and glow discharge mass spectroscopy.