Handbook of Crystal Growth
Fundamentals. Volume 1A
Volume IA of the Handbook of Crystal Growth provides an overview of crystal growth science, focusing on thermodynamics and kinetics. It includes a historical introduction, phase equilibria, defect thermodynamics, stoichiometry, and the structure of melts. Fundamental aspects of crystal growth, along with theories of nucleation and growth kinetics, are thoroughly examined. Simulations using Monte Carlo, ab initio-based approaches, and colloidal assembly are also discussed. Volume IB delves into pattern formation, a key issue in crystal growth, and introduces morphological stability, particularly the phase-field model in relation to experimental findings. It explores the rapidly growing field of nanocrystal growth, using vapor growth as a case study. The growth of proteins and biological molecules is highlighted for its significance in life sciences, with natural biological crystallization providing valuable insights. Additionally, pharmaceutical crystal growth is covered, emphasizing the importance of in situ observation techniques. Volume IA further explores phase equilibria, defect thermodynamics of silicon, stoichiometry of oxides, and the atomistic structure of melts and alloys. It clarifies essential concepts for understanding crystal growth, including equilibrium shapes, rough-smooth transitions, and nucleation mechanisms. Simulations of crystal growth are emphasized, utilizing classical Monte Carlo, ab initio quantum m