this invention provides a device for promoting crystallization of integral membrane proteins using a surface of alkylketene dimers doped with a nucleating compound . a coating that enhances crystallization of integral membrane proteins in the presence of detergent is provided . in another aspect of the invention methods of creating a surface of alkylketene dimers doped with a nucleating compound to promote crystallization of integral membrane proteins are provided . in another aspect of the invention methods of crystallizing integral membrane proteins using surfaces coated with alkylketene dimers doped with a nucleating compound are provided .