Crystallisation rates of calcite from an amorphous precursor in confinement

Using molecular dynamics, we simulate the crystallisation of calcite from an amorphous calcium carbonate precursor within the confines of a cylindrical potential. The crystallisation rates of various low-index calcite surfaces are measured. A notable inhibition in the growth of the (00.1) surface is observed and a mechanism relating to the rotation of the carbonate ions is proposed to explain it.