mikrokrystalinen

Mikrokrystalinen is a term that generally refers to something composed of very small crystals. In various scientific and industrial contexts, this term can have specific meanings.

In the field of materials science, mikrokrystalinen describes a solid material where the crystallites, or individual crystals, are on the order of nanometers to a few micrometers in size. This can significantly affect the material's properties, often leading to increased hardness, strength, and altered optical or electronic characteristics compared to their larger-grained counterparts. For instance, mikrokrystalinen cellulose is a form of cellulose derived from plant cell walls, composed of very small cellulose crystallites. It is used as an excipient in pharmaceuticals, a food additive, and in various industrial applications due to its unique rheological and binding properties.

The term can also be applied to other substances, such as mikrokrystalinen wax. This type of paraffin wax is characterized by its fine crystalline structure, making it more flexible and less brittle than standard paraffin wax. Mikrokrystalinen waxes are derived from petroleum and are widely used in cosmetics, adhesives, polishes, and as a component in food packaging. The small crystal size in these waxes contributes to their plasticity and ability to hold oil.