Introduction

As the Korea Aerospace Administration gears up for its opening on the 27th, an exciting new era in space exploration looms. One of the key focuses in preparation is the search for innovative materials capable of withstanding the harsh conditions of space. Central to this research is the process of crystallization, which can dramatically affect material performance.

Groundbreaking Research by KRISS

In a groundbreaking study, the Korea Research Institute of Standards and Science (KRISS) has made a world-first observation of how solute molecules evolve structurally in extremely supersaturated aqueous solutions. The research revealed that the symmetry of these molecules plays a critical role in the formation of new metastable material phases.

Published in *Nature Communications* (Impact Factor: 16.6) and highlighted by editors, the findings echo the work of German chemist Wilhelm Ostwald from the 1890s, who posited the existence of these intermediate phases during crystallization—a concept known as Ostwald's step rule. Until now, the mechanisms behind these metastable states have remained largely theoretical, with many hypotheses attributing it to changes in the molecular structure of solutes.

Challenges in Experimental Verification

Achieving experimental verification has traditionally posed a challenge, particularly due to limitations in conventional experimental setups. These environments struggle to reach even twice the established solubility limit of solutes, which refers to the maximum concentration a solution can achieve before crystallization at room temperature.

Innovative Electrostatic Levitation Device

However, the KRISS Space Metrology Group has developed an innovative electrostatic levitation (ESL) device that allows them to achieve supersaturation levels over four times greater than the typical solubility limit. This cutting-edge technology enables accurate measurement of molecular structures without the interference of container contact, thereby providing unprecedented insights into crystallization processes.

Yong Chan Cho, a senior research scientist at KRISS, remarked, “This achievement not only elucidates the key factors in forming new material phases but also offers methodologies for the design of desired materials. It represents a significant milestone for the development of new materials suitable for extreme environments, such as those found in space, as well as in biomedical applications.”

Thermal Properties Measurement

The research has also pushed boundaries by implementing ultra-high temperature environments exceeding 4,000 K (3,726 °C) using their ESL device. This advancement enabled precise measurement of the thermal properties of heat-resistant materials like tungsten, rhenium, osmium, and tantalum—essential components in aerospace technologies and nuclear fusion systems. These findings are expected to enhance the safety and efficiency of future designs in space launch vehicles, aircraft engines, and power generation systems.

Future Directions

Geun Woo Lee, Principal Research Scientist of the Space Metrology Group, highlighted the potential impact of their ongoing work: “With our electrostatic levitation system, we create microgravity conditions that mirror those of outer space, facilitating accurate thermophysical measurements. This positions us at the forefront of research aimed at reducing costs while maximizing efficiency in advanced aerospace projects.”

Looking ahead, the team plans to construct an integrated measurement platform that would facilitate precise material property assessments in extreme conditions—spanning ultra-high temperatures, supersaturation, and extreme pressures. This research not only has implications for the aerospace sector but is also significant for advancing our understanding of materials science in areas such as medicine.

Conclusion

As the door to a new era in space materials opens, the potential for innovative and resilient materials becomes even more exciting. Could this be the breakthrough scientists have been waiting for? Stay tuned as research unfolds!