This book introduces the principles and techniques of crystal growth by the flux method which
is arguably the most useful way to obtain millimeter- to centimeter-sized single crystals for
physical research. As it is possible to find an appropriate solvent (flux) for nearly all
inorganic materials the flux method can be applied to the growth of many crystals ranging from
transition metal oxides to intermetallic compounds. Both important principles and experimental
procedures are described in a clear and accessible manner. Practical advice on various aspects
of the experiment which is not readily available in the literature will assist the beginning
graduate students in setting up the lab and conducting successful crystal growth. The
mechanisms of crystal growth at an elementary level are also provided to better understand the
techniques and to help in assessing the quality of the crystals. The book also contains many
photographs of beautiful crystals with important physical properties of current interest such
as high-temperature superconductors strongly correlated electronic systems topological
insulators relaxor ferroelectrics low-dimensional quantum magnets non-linear optical
materials and multiferroics.
