Simulating microgravity conditions for crystal growth

Key Points

• This research explores how simulating microgravity affects defect formation during crystal growth of germanium.
• Applied a high magnetic field to mimic microgravity conditions
• Focused on germanium single crystal growth
• Monitored defect formation levels during the growth process
• Melt convection was effectively suppressed under simulated microgravity
• Defect formations in the germanium crystals were significantly reduced
• Improvements in crystal quality were observed with the application of the magnetic field