Abstract

Glycine–potassium–calcium nitrate (GPCN), a novel semi-organic nonlinear optical (NLO) crystal, was effectively created and developed utilizing the solution growth technique from an aqueous solution at pH 4.8 under carefully regulated temperature conditions. Within three weeks, transparent single crystals measuring around 8 × 6 × 4 mm³ were produced. The solubility of GPCN in water was thoroughly assessed in order to improve the crystal formation process. The crystal's orthorhombic system affiliation was verified by powder X-ray diffraction examination. Its unit cell volume was 1961.30 ų, and its lattice parameters were a = 14.827 Å, b = 13.287 Å, and c = 9.954 Å. Amino and nitrate functional groups were detected using Fourier Transform Infrared spectroscopy. Its applicability for opto-photonics applications was demonstrated by UV-Vis spectroscopy, which showed high optical transparency with a cut-off wavelength at 216 nm. Using a Nd:YAG laser operating at 1064 nm and the Kurtz and Perry powder technique, the nonlinear optical response was investigated. The results showed a second harmonic generation efficiency of 0.66 times that of potassium dihydrogen phosphate. Current-voltage (I-V) measurements and photoconductivity were further characterizations. The surface morphology of the formed crystals was examined using scanning electron microscopy, and dielectric tests showed that the dielectric constant behaved in a frequency-dependent manner. According to Vickers microhardness testing, the mechanical strength was modest. According to these results, GPCN is a viable option for upcoming photonic and NLO device uses.