Structure and properties of minerals and mineral-like synthetic materials: current problems

The main goal of research in the field of the structure and properties of minerals, their crystal chemistry and physics is to obtain fundamental information about the real atomic and electronic structure of mineral objects and physical regularities of their transformation under the influence of external factors (temperature, pressure, radiation, and environmental chemistry). Such information is the basis for typification, restoration of the conditions for mineral crystallization and evolution in a certain geological situation. It is widely used in petrogenetic and geochronological constructions. Such studies are also relevant in the development of nature-like technologies for obtaining new promising functional materials. Research in these areas remains relevant today. This thematic special issue of Lithosphere continues the similar one (“Lithosphere (Russia)”, 2024. Volume 24. No. 2); it presents 13 articles dedicated to the consideration of the following problems: (1) studies of the structure, crystal chemistry, physics and typomorphism of minerals; (2) development of methods of the synthesis and study of the properties of mineral-like materials; (3) development of research methods. The articles of the special issue reflect the results of research by Russian scientists obtained in these areas recently.