Progress of Bridgman crystal growth technology

As a review paper, the development and the basic principles of Bridgman crystal growth technology were first analyzed with the stresses on the growth rate and thermal field control. Then, through the analyses on the seed selection, growth interface morphologies both in micro-scale and macro-scale, the dependence of crystal micro-structure on the growth parameters was discussed. Furthermore, solute partition at the growth interface and solute redistribution in the whole growth system were evaluated with theoretical models, through which the segregation in Bridgman grown crystal was predicated. Finally, the technology development on the controlling methods of the Bridgman growth in the last years were reviewed, including forced convection control, electro-magnetic control and high pressure applications, etc.