https://doi.org/10.1351/goldbook.14264
Epitaxy between crystals of different substances.
Notes:
- Heteroepitaxy may occur between crystals of different polymers. However, the heteroepitaxy of low-molecular-weight systems (e.g., alkanes) on polymer crystals (e.g., polyethylene), and of polymer crystals on crystals of low-molecular-weight substances can also occur. Heteroepitaxy has also been observed for polymer crystals on ionic substances and minerals like clay and mica.
- For some polymers, heteroepitaxy may be used to favor by nucleation the development of a crystalline phase that is not obtained normally.
- Polymer crystals with unusual orientations with respect to the substrate may be obtained by epitaxial crystallization involving heteroepitaxy.
- Heteroepitaxy is often used to enhance nucleation and reduce spherulites’ size in commercial processes.