A novel nonlinear optical single crystal of MMTC was grown at room temperature by slow evaporation technique. The sample was confirmed by single-crystal XRD and CHN analysis. The spectroscopic properties were investigated by FTIR and optical absorption spectra. The SHG efficiency and laser damage threshold studies confirm the superiority of this crystal over conventional laser materials. The dielectric response and photoconducting nature of the crystal were also investigated and reported. Microhardness studies on MMTC suggest that the crystal has a moderate VHN value. The thermal properties of the crystal were investigated by photopyroelectric technique. (c) 2006 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.