A novel exponent in the Equilibrium Shape of Crystals

A new exponent characterizing the rounding of crystal facets is found by mapping a crystal surface onto the asymmetric six-vertex model (i.e. with external fields h and v) and using the Bethe Ansatz to obtain appropriate expansions of the free energy close to criticality. Leading order exponents in \delta h, \delta v are determined along the whole phase boundary and in an arbitrary direction. A possible experimental verification of this result is discussed.