Lattice defects in the crust of a neutron star

We investigate the problem of defects in the crust of a neutron star and their possible astrophysical consequences. We consider point defects (impurities, lattice vacancies) and microcrystalline structures resulting from non-equilibrium processes (nuclear condensation, ionic migration, crystallization, etc.) as well as from equilibrium configurations at finite temperature. Our findings suggest that the presence of impurities is likely while vacancies, microcrystals or a glassy state are probably absent.