Crystal Modification

Definition

The distortion of growing crystal geometry by adsorbed additives so crystals form irregular and weakly adherent.

Charged functional groups on polymers adsorb onto growing crystal surfaces, malforming faces and edges and destroying the repeating order needed for strong adhesion. Well formed faceted crystals become soft, poorly ordered particles with greatly reduced fouling potential. Polymers do not prevent crystals from existing; they prevent crystals from succeeding.

Related concepts

Polymers · Crystal Growth · Aggregation

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Part of The Blueprint of Water · 🧪 chemistry