Crystal Shape Engineering

In an industrial crystallization process, crystal shape strongly influences end-product quality and functionality, as well as downstream processing. In addition, nucleation events, solvent effects, and polymorph selection play critical roles in both the design and operation of a crystallization plant and the patentability of the product and process. Therefore, investigation of these issues, with respect to a priori prediction, is (and will continue to be) an important avenue of research. In this review, we discuss the state-of-the-art in modeling crystallization processes over a range of length scales relevant to nucleation through process design. We also identify opportunities for continued research and specific areas where significant advancements are needed.