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The shape of the DKDP phase front is observed along three perpendicular directions during the coexistence of the paraelectric and ferroelectric phases for different orientations of an external thermal gradient G e . Quasi-planar and zigzag shapes are then described. The thermal distribution inside the sample can be well represented by a thermal gradient G i in the middle of a non-plate-shaped sample. The important effect of the sample's corners is also demonstrated.

The coexistence of the paraelectric and ferroelectric phases is reported for thermally gradiented samples of DKDP; the shape of the phase front, the relevant domain textures and the dielectric properties are described. A phenomenological model allows us to evaluate the contribution of the domains to the dielectric constant.