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For decades, NASA scientists have studied crystals to optimize the crystallization process. Several researchers did crystal-related research in the first quarter of the year, the most recent being protein crystallisation in microgravity. Alexandra Ros of Arizona State University conducted the study by launching a protein crystallization test aboard the International Space Station (ISS). The investigations aim to investigate the development of protein crystals in space using newly designed microfluid devices. The study program includes determining if space-grown crystals can outperform those created on Earth.
What is Crystallisation and how does it affect our lives?
Crystallization is the process of freezing liquid or molten materials into highly organized molecules known as crystals. These crystals can be composed of a variety of materials. This world is full of crystal examples everywhere. It would be incorrect to claim that we do not live in a world of crystals.
Everything, including a coffee mug, a smartphone, and silicon, which is utilized to build the brains of electronics and memory chips, is the consequence of crystallisation. Other forms of semiconductor crystals are utilized to detect various radiations, including gamma rays and infrared rays. The lasers used to scan the goods are built of optical crystals. Turbine blades are one example of metal crystals seen in jet engines.
Why and How Does NASA Study Crystals?
NASA noted that the scientists compared the formation of zinc selenide crystals in space to that of crystals on earth. The discoveries paved the path for improvements in infrared wavelength operations in high-power lasers. The research findings shed light on gravity's considerable effect on the electrical, optical, and structural properties of crystals.
For long years, researchers have improved crystal utilization to investigate the varieties of crystals that can develop in space.
Earth-grown crystals feature imperfections such as small fissures, which can affect the crystal's characteristics. This is a compelling reason why scientists wish to study crystals in space, providing a full microgravitational environment in which they can develop more effectively. Convection caused by the presence of gravitational force reduces the quality of crystals.
However, this convection does not occur in microgravity, resulting in higher-quality crystals. The ISS has now been turned into a comprehensive laboratory for studying crystal formation, which may then be utilized in technology and medicine.
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