Crystal phenomena as a research area investigates the physical behaviors and properties that arise from the ordered atomic or molecular arrangements in crystalline solids, including symmetry-governed effects and defect-related responses. It encompasses studies of phase transitions, lattice dynamics, crystallographic defects (dislocations, vacancies, interfaces), anisotropic mechanical, thermal, and electronic behavior, as well as optical and dielectric responses governed by crystal symmetry and band structure. The field integrates experimental techniques such as X-ray and neutron diffraction, electron microscopy, and spectroscopies with theoretical and computational methods to elucidate structure–property relationships, enabling the design and control of functional materials in electronics, photonics, mechanics, and quantum technologies.
Researchers at ETH have managed to produce nanocrystals made of two different metals using an amalgamation process whereby a liquid metal penetrates a solid one. This new and surprisingly intuitive technique makes it possible ...
Nanomaterials
Aug 5, 2021
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We might imagine crystals to be perfect structures, but they are, in fact, often plagued with "defects." Curiously enough, such defects often appear due to atoms undergoing reorganization to lower the energy of the system ...
Nanomaterials
Jul 28, 2021
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Crystallization is one of the most fundamental processes found in nature—and it's what gives minerals, gems, metals, and even proteins their structure.
Nanomaterials
Jun 29, 2021
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When two similar atomic layers with mismatching lattice constants—the constant distance between a layer's unit cells—and/or orientation are stacked together, the resulting bilayer can exhibit a moiré pattern and form a moiré ...
Nanophysics
Jun 14, 2021
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