Preparation of single crystals of YB 66

Single crystals of YB ₆₆ whose dimensions were up to 11 mm and 50 mm long, were prepared by the floating zone technique. Their growth directions were [100] or [110] which was achieved by seeding. Double-zone-passes reduced markedly sub-grains in the crystal. The crystals have been characterized by fluorescent X-ray analysis, X-ray diffraction, electrical resistivity and chemical etching.