Introduction to crystal growth and characterization

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This textbook offers a comprehensive overview of contemporary crystallography and crystal growth in a single volume. It introduces readers to the concepts of morphological and structural symmetry of crystals, illustrated through the architecture of selected inorganic and molecular crystals. Key crystallographic databases are detailed as sources of crystal structures. The fundamentals of crystal growth are explored, including nucleation processes, kinetics, and primary growth mechanisms. The text addresses phase diagrams in solid and liquid phases, focusing on dopant segregation at both macro- and microscale levels. Fluid dynamics, including various convection types in melts and solutions, are discussed. Additionally, the book covers growth techniques for semiconducting materials, emphasizing the influence of external fields such as magnetic fields and microgravity. Crystal characterization is examined in depth, focusing on crystal defects, quality, and applications. This textbook is designed to be accessible for undergraduate and graduate students in crystallography, physics, chemistry, materials science, and engineering, while also serving as a valuable resource for scientists involved in crystal growth and materials engineering.