Influence of a Static Magnetic Field on the ⟨100⟩ Growth Rates of Sodium Chlorate Crystals from Aqueous Solution

Abstract

The results of the study of the influence of a static magnetic field of 55 ± 3 mT on the growth rates of diamagnetic sodium chlorate crystals in the direction ⟨100⟩ will be presented. Two groups of experiments were performed in the same solution supersaturation range of 0.89−1.78%, the first in zero field conditions, and the second in an applied magnetic field. The results show that crystals nucleated and grown in a static magnetic field have higher mean growth rates in the ⟨100⟩ direction than crystals in a zero field. Also, X-ray analyses suggest that crystals nucleated and grown in a magnetic field may have a higher lattice constant. Possible mechanisms and possible reasons for these phenomena are discussed.

Crystal Morphology Prediction Models and Regulating Methods

“…Magnetic fields with gradients can inhibit the convex surface and thus slow the growth of protein crystals [138]. Magnetic fields can also have an effect equivalent to an increase in the saturation temperature of the solution [139]. Considering the high cost of strong magnetic fields, some researchers chose the combination of a weak magnetic field and growth gel to improve crystal quality.…”