Engineering of crystal surfaces and subsurfaces by framework biomineralization protein phases

Abstract

We report an interesting phenomenon whereby a framework mollusk shell nacre protein, n16.3, facilitates a two-stage crystal growth process. This protein forms phases that permit initial calcite growth, then via direct contact introduce textured mineral overgrowth to these core crystals in a directional fashion, and, create subsurface nanoporosities within these crystals. This phenomenon is an example of crystal modification and assembly directed by a biomineralization protein phase and we believe this framework protein-driven process is important for the assembly of the nacre shell layer. Similar phase-based approaches could be used to engineer a variety of inorganic crystals for technological applications.