Ultra-smooth and space-filling mineral films generated via particle accretion processes

Abstract

Well-tuned bioinspired mineralization via liquid mineral precursors yields ultra-smooth, space-filling bodies, transgressing the supremum of packing densities of nonclassical crystallization.

Small‐Molecular‐Weight Additives Modulate Calcification by Interacting with Prenucleation Clusters on the Molecular Level**

“…Initially, TPP was supposed to inhibit precipitation by surface adsorption to PNCs. [24] Later, it was suggested that TPP inhibits precipitation via induction of a PILP [31,32] -like phase [26] and not by steric shielding because TPP is only "weakly involved" [26] in PNCs. These unresolved issues betoken our current lack of a deeper, molecular-level understanding.…”

Small but effective: light-weight additives modulate prenucleation clusters by specific interactions on the molecular level

“…Organisms meticulously control ACC formation and transformation by a complex molecular machinery whose actual mechanistic and molecular foundations still require further elucidation [10][11][12] . For example, selected polyelectrolytes are capable of triggering the-still enigmatic-polymer-induced liquid-precursor (PILP) process [13] , which yields mineral bodies with atypical morphology via the self-assembly of a liquid-like and highly hydrated transient precursor phase [14][15][16][17][18] ; it even allows infiltration and coating of complex substrates [19][20][21][22] .…”