Promising high-k dielectric permittivity of pyrochlore-type crystals of Nd2Hf2O7

Abstract

A single crystal of Nd₂Hf₂O₇ was grown by the floating-zone technique. We have characterized its structural, dielectric, optical and thermal properties. At room temperature, the static dielectric constant amounts to ∼46. Ultraviolet absorption measurements indicate a direct band gap of ∼5 eV.