Growth of single crystals of KClO4 in silica gels

Abstract

Single crystals of KClO₄ up to 20 × 10 × 6 mm size have been grown in silica gels at ambient temperature and identified by X-ray diffraction and suitable chemical analysis. The crystals are grown with different crystallization apparatus, different reactants and the effect of reaction waste products on crystal quality and size has been studied. The effect of concentration of reactants on habit modification has also been studied. It is observed the at lower concentration of reactants, crystals with large {101}, {210} and smaller {001} habit faces grow, while at higher concentrations, {001} faces disappear and the crystal grow in the form of needles. Cups have been observed during the growth of these crystals.