In this work, Fe2+:ZnSe powders were prepared by grinding a mixture consisting of high-purity ZnSe obtained via chemical vapor deposition and thermally diffused Fe2+:ZnSe. In this manner, it was possible to avoid the presence of harmful H2Se gases and achieve homogeneous distribution of Fe2+ ions in the synthesis of Fe2+:ZnSe powders. Fe2+:ZnSe transparent ceramics were fabricated by hot-pressing as-obtained powders. Phase structure and microstructural properties of the powders and ceramics were studied via X-ray diffraction and field-emission scanning electron microscopy. As-prepared Fe2+:ZnSe ceramics exhibited dense microstructure with relative density higher than 99%, but few residual micropores were found to be localized at grain boundaries. 1.0-mm-thick Fe2+:ZnSe ceramic sintered at 900 °C showed the best optical transmission, namely ∼63% at 5 µm and ∼69% at 14 µm. Additionally, hot-pressed Fe2+:ZnSe ceramics displayed an absorption peak at around 3 µm. These Fe2+:ZnSe ceramics are promising candidates as mid-infrared laser gain materials.

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