The Effects of Local Strain on the Crystal Chemistry of Solid Solutions

The concept of the solid solution, the substitution of one kind of atom for another in a crystal structure, is a central idea in both mineral sciences and solid state chemistry. Such atomic substitutions alter local crystal chemistry and hence always introduce strain into crystal lattices. In this project we aim to characterize this substitutional strain. Ultimately this should lead to a better understanding of the geological history of rocks, improvements in metal recovery from ores and to the design and synthesis of new materials.