T.B. Suneetha,
R.M. Aadarsh Vel,
R. Madhumitha Sri,
- Associate Professor, Department of Biotechnology, Acharya Institute of Technology, Bengaluru, Karnataka, India
- 2BBA Student, Airlines & Airport Management, Lovely Professional University, Jalandhar, Punjab, India
- B.Tech. Student, Anna University & Project Consultant (R&D), Zifo Technology, Chennai,, Tamil Nadu, India
Abstract
The physical and chemical properties of crystalline solids are fundamentally dictated by deviations from structural perfection, known as crystal defects. From the point-scale vacancies that drive diffusion to the planar boundaries that determine mechanical strength, defects serve as the primary “tuning knobs” in material design. This review provides a comprehensive examination of point, line, and planar defects, exploring their formation energetics and their role in plastic deformation via crystallographic slip. Furthermore, we evaluate the evolution of defect engineering and the state-of-the-art characterization suite, including high-resolution electron microscopy (HRTEM), electron channeling contrast imaging (ECCI), and scanning probe microscopy (SPM), which allow for atomic-level visualization and manipulation. In addition, the interplay between different classes of defects and their collective influence on macroscopic properties such as electrical conductivity, thermal stability, and corrosion resistance is critically discussed. Special emphasis is placed on defect interactions under external stimuli, including stress, temperature, and irradiation, which often lead to complex microstructural evolution. Recent advances in computational modeling, particularly density functional theory (DFT) and molecular dynamics (MD) simulations, have significantly enhanced the predictive understanding of defect behavior at multiple length scales. These approaches, combined with advanced experimental techniques, have enabled precise control over defect density and distribution, paving the way for the design of high-performance materials with tailored functionalities. Ultimately, this review highlights the central role of defect engineering in modern materials science and its potential in developing next-generation structural and functional materials.
Keywords: Electron channeling contrast imaging, density functional theory, scanning probe microscopy, Crystal Defects, semiconductors
[This article belongs to International Journal of Crystalline Materials ]
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International Journal of Crystalline Materials
| Volume | 03 | |
| Issue | 01 | |
| Received | 04/05/2026 | |
| Accepted | 05/05/2026 | |
| Published | 15/05/2026 | |
| Publication Time | 11 Days |