University Chemistry ›› 2024, Vol. 39 ›› Issue (3): 78-85.doi: 10.3866/PKU.DXHX202309004

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How to Visually Identify Homochiral Crystals

Haiying Wang1,*(), Andrew C.-H. Sue2   

  1. 1 Sichuan Key Laboratory of Medical Imaging, North Sichuan Medical College, Nanchong 637000, Sichuan Province, China
    2 College of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Xiamen University, Xiamen 361005, Fujian Province, China
  • Received:2023-09-01 Accepted:2023-10-19 Published:2023-11-13
  • Contact: Haiying Wang E-mail:hywang@nsmc.edu.cn

Abstract:

During the crystallization process of certain racemic compounds, spontaneous resolution can lead to distinctive external appearances of enantiomeric crystal forms. This article offers a comprehensive overview and delineates four methods for identification, namely, examining hemihedral faces, assessing macromorphology, employing circular polarization, and analyzing surface topography. These identification techniques serve as invaluable tools and viewpoints for studying the crystallization behavior of chiral compounds, holding significant potential across diverse applications in pharmaceutical production, materials science, and chemical synthesis.

Key words: Spontaneous resolution, Hemihedral faces, Macromorphology, Circular polarization, Surface topography