Related Experiment Video
Updated: Oct 22, 2025

Growing Protein Crystals with Distinct Dimensions Using Automated Crystallization Coupled with In Situ Dynamic Light Scattering
Published on: August 14, 2018
Application of Polymers as a Tool in Crystallization-A Review
Marcin Lemanowicz1, Anna Mielańczyk2, Tomasz Walica1
1Department of Chemical Engineering and Process Design, Faculty of Chemistry, Silesian University of Technology, 44-100 Gliwice, Poland.
Polymers significantly influence crystallization, with research booming since 1990. This review synthesizes over 100 studies on polymer-controlled crystallization for diverse industrial applications.
Area of Science:
- Materials Science
- Chemical Engineering
- Physical Chemistry
Background:
- Polymer-assisted crystallization is a rapidly growing research area, evidenced by a significant increase in publications.
- Controlling crystallization and crystal properties remains a challenge in manufacturing various materials.
- Advancements in measurement techniques are crucial for understanding and optimizing crystallization processes.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review and discuss over 100 scientific papers on the influence of polymers in crystallization.
- To highlight the growing interest and importance of polymer-controlled crystallization.
- To provide insights into the applications of polymer-assisted crystallization across different industries.
Main Methods:
- Literature review and synthesis of over 100 peer-reviewed articles.
- Analysis of trends in polymer-induced and polymer-controlled crystallization research.
- Categorization of applications based on industry sectors.
Main Results:
- A substantial rise in research on polymer-induced and polymer-controlled crystallization from 1990 to 2020.
- Diverse applications identified, including pharmaceuticals, pigments, energy, and water treatment.
- The review consolidates current knowledge on polymer-crystallization interactions.
Conclusions:
- Polymer-assisted crystallization is a key area for materials science and chemical engineering.
- Further development of precise measurement techniques will enhance process control and theoretical modeling.
- This review serves as a valuable resource for researchers and industry professionals in the field.
Related Concept Videos
Polymer Classification: Crystallinity
Crystalline domains are the regions where polymer chains are aligned in an orderly manner and held together in proximity by intermolecular forces. For example, chains in the crystalline domains of polyethylene and nylon are bound together by van der Waals...
Crystal Growth: Principles of Crystallization
Initiating crystallization involves manipulating the concentration of the solute and the temperature of the solution. Since crystal growth occurs when the ratio of concentration and solubility of the solute in the solvent...
Recrystallization: Solid–Solution Equilibria
Factors Affecting Dissolution: Polymorphism, Amorphism and Pseudopolymorphism
Some polymorphic crystals possess lower aqueous solubility than their amorphous counterparts, leading to incomplete absorption. For instance, the oral suspension of Chloramphenicol, which...
Anionic Chain-Growth Polymerization: Overview
Polymers

