Cubic-structured crystals which had been prepared at high pressures and temperatures were analyzed by using optical microscopy, transmission electron microscopy, electron diffraction and electron spin resonance techniques. The results, for various growth conditions, indicated that the crystals contained defects and impurities. This was the first time that dislocation cores had been revealed in the cubic phase at the atomic level. Atomic resolution of extended dislocations permitted the stacking-fault energy to be determined as equal to 191mJ/m2. This value was of the same order as that for diamond.

High-Resolution Electron Microscopy and Electron Spin Resonance Studies of Cubic Boron Nitride Crystals made by High-Pressure High-Temperature Synthesis. L.Nistor, S.Nistor, G.Dinca, J.Van Landuyt, D.Schoemaker, V.Copaciu, P.Georgeoni, N.Arnici: Diamond and Related Materials, 1999, 8[2-5], 738-42