Abstract: A method is provided for compounding, homogenizing and consolidating compounds. In one embodiment, the charge components are mixed in a controlled addition process, then the newly-formed compound is heated to become totally molten, followed by a rapid quench at room temperature. In an alternate embodiment, the components are supplied with an excess of one component acting as a solvent, heated to dissolve additional components, and then the solvent is separated from the compound to produce homogeneous consolidated compounds. The methods herein are advantageously applied to provide an economical and fast process for producing CdTe, CdZnTe and ZnTe compounds.

Abstract: A temperature- and evaporation-controlled device for the crystallization of proteins from a protein-containing solution. The device comprises a compartment, such as a microcapillary tube, for holding the solution from which crystals are formed. The compartment is in communication with a cold generating unit, such as a cold finger, that maintains a temperature lower than the temperature of the compartment thereby causing de-watering of the solution. A vacuum pump can be attached to the device to reduce vapor pressure to further promote de-watering of the solution. The device can be used terrestrially or in a microgravity environment, such as in outer space, for formation of high quality protein crystals.