Aims of BACG
As set out in the BACG constitution, the Association exists to promote scientific and technological communication in the theory and practice of crystal growth, industrial crystallisation and crystal appraisal. By providing a forum for discussion and knowledge exchange, BACG supports the advancement of crystal growth science and its practical application across a wide range of sectors.
BACG embraces all types of crystalline materials, including inorganic and organic compounds, metals, ceramics, polymers and electronic materials. Interdisciplinary by nature, the Association brings together industry, research organisations and higher education across the UK, while maintaining a strong commitment to education and the development of expertise within the field.
History of BACG
1950s–1968 | Foundations
During the post-war period, major advances in electronics, optics and industrial chemistry drove rapid development in crystal growth science. Key theoretical breakthroughs, particularly the Burton–Cabrera–Frank (BCF) theory, helped establish crystal growth as a distinct scientific discipline. International and UK-based meetings throughout the 1960s brought together researchers from academia and industry, culminating in the second International Conference on Crystal Growth (ICCG2) in Birmingham in 1968. This meeting created the momentum to establish a national UK association.
1969–1979 | Formation and Early Growth
The British Association for Crystal Growth (BACG) was formally founded in June 1969 at Imperial College London. The first Annual Conference was held in 1970, beginning a continuous series that remains central to the Association’s activities. Membership grew quickly, and BACG became known for its inclusive, supportive meetings, particularly for early-career researchers. During this decade BACG became a founding member of the International Organisation for Crystal Growth (IOCG), launched its newsletter, and adopted the snowflake logo that is still used today.
1980–1989 | Expansion and International Influence
The 1980s marked a period of consolidation and international leadership. The BACG Newsletter became a regular professional publication, and the Annual Lecture was fully embedded within the annual conference. BACG played a major role in organising international conferences and summer schools, including ICCG8 (York) and ECCG2 (Lancaster). Members contributed extensively to journals, conference proceedings and influential textbooks, while educational outreach expanded through exhibitions, student sponsorship and schools engagement.
1990–1999 | Challenge and Renewal
Industrial restructuring in the electronics sector led to declining conference attendance in the early 1990s. In response, BACG broadened its scope to include industrial crystallisation, organic materials and pharmaceuticals, while retaining its independence and international role within the IOCG. The Association celebrated its 21st anniversary in 1990 and introduced the Young Scientist Award to recognise outstanding early-career researchers. Governance changes, specialist activity groups and professional administrative support helped stabilise the Association by the end of the decade, alongside the launch of the BACG website.
2000–2009 | Stability and a Broader Community
Entering the new millennium, BACG returned to stable attendance and finances, with conferences regularly attracting 80–100 delegates. The scientific scope continued to expand, covering pharmaceuticals, biomolecular crystallisation, nanomaterials and atmospheric processes. Strong international links were maintained through joint meetings with European and Irish associations and continued leadership within the IOCG. In 2009, BACG celebrated its 40th anniversary, marking four decades of sustained contribution to crystal growth science, technology and education.