Features of synthesis of ZnSe ceramics from nanopowders obtained using a high-power laser

Abstract

The reasons for the occurrence of optical inhomogeneities in ZnSe or Fe:ZnSe ceramics, which were made from nanoparticles, obtained using a continuous wave ytterbium fiber laser, were investigated. Evaporation of ZnSe at T ≤ 900 ˚С results in formation of large pores (0.5–10 µm) in the ceramics. When the material is oxidized by means of oxygen adsorbed from air onto the surface of nanoparticles, such refractory phases as ZnO and ZnSeO₃ are formed. Even a low content of these phases (< 1 wt%) results in formation of accumulations of small crystallites (0.2–3 μm) in the ceramics. Numerous pores and extended accumulations of small crystallites are optical non-uniformities that scatter and absorb light. Changes in the chemical composition and contamination of ZnSe during the production of nanopowders and ceramics turned out to be too small for such inhomogeneities to form.