Abstract
NaCl crystals grown by the evaporation of an aqueous salt solution in microgravity on the International Space Station (ISS) were characterized and compared to salt crystals grown on earth. NaCl crystallized as thin wafers in a supersaturated film of 200–700 μm thickness and 50 mm diameter, or as hopper cubes in 10 mm diameter supersaturated spheres. Neutron diffraction shows no change in crystal structure and in cell parameters compared to earth-grown crystals. However, the morphology can be different, frequently showing circular, disk-like shapes of single crystals with 〈1 1 1〉 perpendicular to the disks, an unusual morphology for salt crystals. In contrast to the growth on earth the lateral faces of the microgravity tabular hopper crystals are symmetrical because they are free floating during the crystallization process. Hopper cubes were produced without the need to suspend the growing crystals by an ongoing stirring. “Fleur de Sel” is shown as an example of two-dimensional growth of salt on earth and compared to the space grown crystals. It is shown that in microgravity conditions brine fluid inclusions form within the salt crystals.
Sign-in/Register to access full text options 
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Schedule a callDisclaimer: All third-party content on this website/platform is and will remain the property of their respective owners and is provided on "as is" basis without any warranties, express or implied. Use of third-party content does not indicate any affiliation, sponsorship with or endorsement by them. Any references to third-party content is to identify the corresponding services and shall be considered fair use under The CopyrightLaw.
