Crystal growth and morphology of calcium oxalates and carbonates

Abstract

The main purpose of the research described in this thesis is to establish a relationship between the crystal structure and morphology of calcium oxalate and calcium carbonate crystals grown from aqueous solutions. Starting point is the PBC (Periodic Bond Chain) theory formulated by Hartman and Perdok in 1955, which has further been developed since that time and also during the co~rse of this investigation. By means of this theory, the growth mechanism of the different crystal faces can be deduced from the crystal structure. The most important faces grow in layers, in which the atoms are mutually bound by strong bonds; owing to their surface structure, these faces are called F (flat) faces. In addition to theoretical considerations, attention is focussed on the role played by calcium oxalate hydrates in the formation of urinary stones. As far as calcium carbonate is concerned, the relation between the growth and cathodoluminescence of manganese containing calcite is under experimental study,