Crystal imperfections in ice I_h

Area of Science:

• Materials Science
• Solid State Physics
• Crystallography

Background:

• Hexagonal ice (ice I_h) exhibits unique crystal defect behavior.
• Proton disorder and hydrogen bond asymmetry contribute to defect complexity.

Purpose of the Study:

• To provide a comprehensive overview of crystal imperfections in ice I_h.
• To organize defects based on their spatial extent (0D, 1D, 2D).

Main Methods:

• Review and synthesis of existing literature on ice I_h defects.
• Classification of defects by dimensionality: point defects, dislocations, and planar defects.

Main Results:

• Detailed discussion of zero-dimensional defects: vacancies, interstitials, Bjerrum, and ionic defects.
• Analysis of one-dimensional defects: dislocations and their role in plastic deformation.
• Examination of two-dimensional defects: stacking faults and grain boundaries, comparing them to the free surface.

Conclusions:

• Crystal defects in ice I_h are diverse and complex, influenced by its molecular characteristics.
• Understanding these defects is crucial for predicting the macroscopic properties of ice.
• Future research should focus on the interplay between defects and macroscopic ice behavior.