PNNL

Abstract

Structural changes from processing in polytype-rich ZnS are complex and poorly understood In this study, recrystallization was induced in chemical vapor deposited (CVD) ZnS by annealing and hot isostatic pressing (HIPing). Samples were characterized using optical microscopy, SEM, TEM, electron diffraction, polycrystalline and powder x-ray diffraction, and transmission spectroscopy. Recrystallization was found to reduce the hexagonality and increase the texture of as deposited ZnS. Changes in hexagonality and texture can occur independently of each other. HIP’d ZnS with superior transmission exhibits both a change in texture as well as a reduction in hexagonal content. Reduction in hexagonality, alone, was not sufficient to improve optical transmission from the visible to the infrared. For the first time, the effects of pressure, temperature, and the presence of platinum on recrystallization during commercial ZnS HIPing are separated and identified. Platinum was found to actively promote recrystallization and silver demonstrated a similar effect. Several theories focusing on the unique polytypic nature of ZnS are offered to explain the changes in structure and properties occurring during recrystallization, These findings contribute to a broader understanding of the nature of order-disorder and martensitic phase transformations in ceramic materials.