Reversed crystal growth of metal organic framework MIL-68(In)

An investigation of the crystal growth of metal organic framework MIL-68(In) under solvothermal conditions revealed a non-classical reversed crystal growth mechanism via a route of nanorods - orientated aggregation into polycrystalline microrods - surface recrystallisation into a hexagonal shell - extension of recrystallisation from the surface to the core of the microrods. Terephthalic acid molecules which are adsorbed onto the surface of nanorods are believed to strengthen the inter-particle interaction, leading to an early stage aggregation of the monocrystalline nanorods.

Automated summary

The investigation of crystal growth of metal organic framework MIL-68(In) under solvothermal conditions revealed a non-classical reversed crystal growth mechanism, involving a path from nanorods to oriented aggregation into polycrystalline microrods to surface recrystallization into a hexagonal shell to extension of recrystallization from surface to core of microrods.