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Crystal Growth from the Melt

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Fluid Sciences and Materials Science in Space

Abstract

The commercial importance of crystal growth from the melt is outlined and existing terrestrial technology reviewed. Gravity-related limitations and defects are identified. These are caused principally by effects associated with buoyancy-driven convection. Fundamental aspects of the phenomena and the defect generation mechanisms are considered.

This information is used to explore the potential of microgravity. The results obtained from space experiments to date are also reviewed.

Finally, future scientific activities are proposed and some comments on research policy and equipment development are offered.

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Author information

Authors and Affiliations

  1. Royal Signals and Radar Establishment, St. Andrews Road, Great Malvern WORCS, WR14 3PS, UK

    D. T. J. Hurle

  2. Institut für Werkstoffwissenschaften VI, Universität Erlangen-Nürnberg, Martensstrasse 7, D-8520, Erlangen, Fed. Rep. of Germany

    G. Müller

  3. Kristallographisches Institut, Albert Ludwigs Universität, Hebelstrasse 25, D-7800, Freiburg, Fed. Rep. of Germany

    R. Nitsche

Authors
  1. D. T. J. Hurle
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  2. G. Müller
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  3. R. Nitsche
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Editor information

Editors and Affiliations

  1. Microgravity Office, European Space Agency, 8-10 rue Mario-Nikis, 75738, Paris Cedex 15, France

    H. U. Walter

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© 1987 European Space Agency, Paris Cedex, France

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Hurle, D.T.J., Müller, G., Nitsche, R. (1987). Crystal Growth from the Melt. In: Walter, H.U. (eds) Fluid Sciences and Materials Science in Space. Springer, Berlin, Heidelberg. https://doi.org/10.1007/978-3-642-46613-7_10

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  • DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/978-3-642-46613-7_10

  • Publisher Name: Springer, Berlin, Heidelberg

  • Print ISBN: 978-3-642-46615-1

  • Online ISBN: 978-3-642-46613-7

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