Controlling glycine polymorphs through nanoconfinement

Researchers have developed a new electric-field-assisted spraying technique that gives them precise control over how glycine crystallizes, according to Physics World. By confining the amino acid to tiny spaces during the spraying process, scientists can determine whether it forms its stable alpha-phase or its more functional beta-phase, which has piezoelectric properties—meaning it generates electric charge under mechanical stress. This kind of control over crystal formation could unlock new applications in materials science and electronics.

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