This thesis is an investigation of the possibility of growing single crystals of dl-camphene, d-camphor, and cyclohexanol. These are organic compounds, characterized by globular molecules , which form plastic crystals immediately below their melting point. Single crystals were desired in order to study, by ultra-sound techniques, properties pertinent to the evaluation of the elastic constants of these crystals. Primary emphasis was placed on growing crystals of dl-camphene, since it is conveniently handled at room temperatures.
Methods of growth from the melt were chosen because of the relatively fast growth rates, compared to vapor or solution techniques. Secondary considerations were simplicity of the apparatus and the final geometry of the crystals, with the cylindrical shape being well suited for the ultrasonic measurements