Chemistry Research Proposals
Group C (Grade 11)

Crystal Growth on Rough Surfaces.

It is commonly known that crystal growth is promoted by seed crystals or other foreign objects which, in contact with pregnant solutions, act as seeds. Not so well known is the variability of crystal habit and morphology when crystals grow on substrates such as rocks, sea-shells, etc.

Starting from some well-tested examples the project involves exploration of new substrates for old crystals or old substrates for new crystals. The possibility of obtaining new gem-quality crystals exists. The products will be characterized in terms of crystal habit and symmetry.

Participants

• Prof JCA Boeyens
• Dr VVH Iccharam
• Ms Linda Prinsloo
• Prof Peet van Rooyen
• and others