Using LiF and YF3 as starting materials,we prepare feed material from fluorides according to the molar ratio of LiF：YF3=51.5：48.5.The anhydrous LiYF4 polycrystalline material is synthesized via the fluoridation process with a dried HF flow at elevated temperature.By charging the feed material and adding a small amount of active carbon powder in a sealed platinum crucible,the crystal can be grown via the vertical Bridgman method in a nonvacuum atmosphere.This is possible because the oxidization and volatilization of the melt is avoided.Using optimum conditions,that is,a growth rate of 0.5-0.6 mm/h and a temperature gradient of 25-30℃/cm across the solid-liquid interface under a furnace temperature of 920-930℃,the colorless crystal LiYF 4 with the size of φ25 × 50 （mm） is successfully grown.The optical transmittance of the crystal is as high as 85% above the absorption edge at 190 nm.The induced absorption bands are observed below 700 nm in the transmission spectrum after the crystal is subjected to a high dose of γ-ray irradiation.
