Enabling three-dimensional real-space analysis of ionic colloidal crystallization
Source abstract
Abstract
Structures of molecular crystals are identified using scattering techniques because we cannot see inside them. Micrometre-sized colloidal particles enable the real-time observation of crystallization with optical microscopy, but in practice this is still hampered by a lack of 'X-ray vision'. Here we introduce a system of index-matched fluorescently labelled colloidal particles and demonstrate the robust formation of ionic crystals in aqueous solution, with structures that can be controlled by size ratio and salt concentration. Full three-dimensional coordinates of particles are distinguished through in situ confocal microscopy, and the crystal structures are identified via comparison of their simulated scattering pattern with known atomic arrangements. Finally, we leverage our ability to look inside colloidal crystals to observe the motion of defects and crystal melting in time and space and to reveal the origin of crystal twinning. Using this platform, the path to real-time analysis of ionic colloidal crystallization is now 'crystal clear'.
Source: europepmc · Quality: candidate unverified · Source record ↗
Research context
OpenAlex topics: Material Dynamics and Properties · Geochemistry and Geologic Mapping
SciVX discovery tags are terminology-based. OpenAlex topics are source-provided classifications.
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