| Principal Investigator |
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Shinichi Nakatsuji, Ph.D.
(Himeji Institute of Technology) |
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| Objective |
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The experiment aims to get a large and high-quality crystal of an organic
ferromagnet utilizing the zero-gravity condition.
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| Experiment outline |
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Two solutions (donor solution and acceptor solution) are diffused and
mixed together under the zero-gravity condition, thus permitting a high-quality
crystal of organic ferromagnet grow.
(note) The organic ferromagnet is very unique organic material which shows
ferromagnetic behavior.
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| Expected effects |
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On Earth, it is difficult to obtain a high-quality crystal of an organic
ferromagnet due to the convection. Under the zero-gravity condition, however
due to no convection, ideal diffusion is expected to provide a high-quality
crystal in a short time. Investigation of the structure and physical properties
of the high-quality crystal of organic ferromagnet should yield new findings
on organoferromagnetic materials.
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| Experimental unit |
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Organic crystal growth chamber (OCC)
The OCC is an experimental unit capable of growing organic crystals by
diffusion of two solutions.
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Organic crystal growth chamber (OCC) |
The OCC is composed of two solution containers and one solvent container.
Each of the passages connecting the containers has an open/close valve.
To begin the experiment on orbit, a crew member opens the valve. Under
the zero-gravity conditions, the solutions, each having a different density,
diffuse. Over a period of several days, crystals are formed in the solvent
solution. |
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