Synthesis, growth, optical, mechanical and dielectric studies on NLO active monometallic zinc iodate [Zn(IO3)2] crystal for frequency conversion

The monometallic single crystal of zinc iodate [Zn(IO₃)₂] was grown by slow cooling technique with the dimension up to 14 × 4 × 3 mm³ in the period of 35–45 days. Single crystal X-ray diffraction (XRD) analysis shows that the zinc iodate (ZI) crystal crystallizes in monoclinic crystal system with space group P₂₁. The various functional groups of ZI were identified by FTIR analysis. The optical absorption of the grown crystal has been ascertained by UV–vis-NIR absorption studies. Second harmonic generation (SHG) efficiency of ZI is 2.75 times greater than that of KDP sample. The microhardness test of the grown crystal suggests that the crystal possesses relatively high mechanical strength. From the mechanical test certain mechanical parameters were determined. The dielectric behavior of the ZI crystal at different temperatures with varying frequencies shows the normal behavior activity of the grown crystal. The field dependent conductivity study was carried out.