Bio‐Inspired Synthesis and Mechanical Properties of Calcite–Polymer Particle Composites

Abstract

Calcite single crystals containing polystyrene particles are synthesized using a straightforward, one-pot method, through control of the particle surface structure and the crystallization conditions. Investigation of the mechanical behavior of these composite crystals using nanoindentation shows enhanced fracture toughness via a crack bridging mechanism. Detailed facts of importance to specialist readers are published as ”Supporting Information”. Such documents are peer-reviewed, but not copy-edited or typeset. They are made available as submitted by the authors. Please note: The publisher is not responsible for the content or functionality of any supporting information supplied by the authors. Any queries (other than missing content) should be directed to the corresponding author for the article.