Chemically Inhomogeneous Biogenic Single Crystals: From Structure-Function Relationships to Residual Strain Management

• Applicant: Professor Dr. Paul Zaslansky
• Subject Area: Thermodynamics and Kinetics as well as Properties of Phases and Microstructure of Materials ; Biomaterials
• Term: since 2025
• Project identifier: Deutsche Forschungsgemeinschaft (DFG) - Project number 561067251

This DFG-ISF joint project explores the structural and functional properties of chemically inhomogeneous biogenic calcite crystals to reveal principles underpinning their enhanced physical performance and stability. Unlike synthetic crystals, these natural structures incorporate high concentrations of impurities including Mg, Sr, and Zn, forming complex spatial distributions through gradients, nanoprecipitates, and layered compositions. By studying model organisms such as brittle stars and sea stars, we aim to elucidate the 3D organization of these crystals at atomic to micrometer scales and uncover the thermodynamic, kinetic, and chemical mechanisms enabling impurity incorporation beyond classical solubility limits. Our methodology includes advanced imaging and analytical techniques, such as synchrotron-based X-ray diffraction and nano-tomography, to visualize and characterize impurity distributions and structural organization. Additionally, we will model the structure-property relationships and investigate the impact of impurities on mechanical strength, optical performance, and chemical resilience. By varying environmental conditions like temperature, and impurity concentration, we aim to develop kinetic and thermodynamic models that explain impurity-driven stabilization mechanisms. This research not only advances our understanding of biogenic mineralization but also sets the foundation for developing bioinspired materials with tunable properties, fostering knowledge potentially applicable in other materials science, biomimetics, and sustainability research.

• DFG Programme: Research Grants
• International Connection: Israel
• Partner Organisation: The Israel Science Foundation
• Cooperation Partners: Professorin Dr. Tali Mass, Ph.D.; Professor Dr. Boaz Pokroy, Ph.D.