Influence of External Fields on the Morphology and Rate of Crystal Growth

Abstract

This study explores the effect of external electric and magnetic fields on the morphology and growth rate of crystals, using potassium dihydrogen phosphate (KDP) and benzoic acid as model systems. Crystals were grown under controlled laboratory conditions with varying intensities of electric (10 V and 30 V) and magnetic (0.1 T and 0.5 T) fields. The results show a significant enhancement in crystal growth rate under both types of fields, with the electric field at 30 V producing the most pronounced increase. Morphological analysis revealed improved symmetry and shape uniformity in field-assisted crystals compared to those grown under ambient conditions. Additionally, crystals exposed to higher field strengths reached target sizes more rapidly and exhibited a greater degree of preferred facet orientation. Statistical analysis using ANOVA confirmed that these differences were highly significant. The findings suggest that external fields influence crystallization by altering molecular transport, orientation, and interfacial dynamics, offering a promising approach for improving the quality and efficiency of crystal production in scientific and industrial applications