Synergizing Crystallography, Mineral Materials Science and Solid Waste Upcycling for Sustainable Materials Innovation

Dear Colleagues,

Crystals, characterized by their highly ordered atomic structures, serve as foundational units for deciphering the properties and applications of materials. In mineralogy, crystallographic analysis remains indispensable for mineral identification and classification, as well as the elucidation of formation mechanisms, stability fields, and structure–property relationships. Beyond natural mineral systems, rationally designed crystalline materials, including zeolites, perovskites, metal–organic frameworks (MOFs), and their derivatives, are redefining frontiers in functional materials science, enabling breakthroughs in catalysis, renewable energy technologies, and environmental applications such as carbon capture and pollutant sequestration. Particularly, integrating artificial intelligence with crystal structure prediction and design can accelerate the R&D cycle, reduce trial-and-error costs, and significantly expedite the development of novel crystal materials. Equally transformative is the role of crystalline phases in sustainable waste management. Industrial byproducts (e.g., metallurgical slags, fly ash, and construction residues) are increasingly recognized as secondary resource reservoirs. By transforming waste into valuable crystalline materials, we can reduce environmental impacts and promote circular economy principles. This Special Issue explores the synergistic convergence of crystallography, mineral materials science, and solid waste valorization. We welcome contributions that highlight the potential of crystals to drive technological and environmental progress, leading to a paradigm shift in materials innovation and waste-to-resource transitions

Prof. Dr. Limei Wu
Dr. Xin Liu
Dr. Qingfeng Guo
Guest Editors

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