Researchers at the University of Michigan recently announced the discovery of a crystalline structure that can be engineered in a laboratory that lacks the angles and facets of traditionally conceived engineered crystals. These nanolobes (as they are termed) have been produced in nature but previously were impossible to produce in a laboratory. In nature, they are found in things such as the shells of starfish and the rudimentary eyes of Echinoderms. The researchers hope that the organic vapor jet printing technology that allows for the creation of these structures means that they will lend themselves well to applications such as 3D printed medications that are easier for the body to absorb and contain fewer impurities. Read more in the full article: http://3dprint.com/20000/nanolobe-organic-vapor-jet/ ‎


Below is a picture of nanolobe crystal structure: