His technique for producing what are called shaped crystals was influential in the field of material studies and continues to be used, known as the "Stepanov method".
He worked on growing perfect crystals to examine their structures, and mechanical properties including elasticity, strength, anisotropy and other aspects of solids.
He attempted to extend his findings to develop a theory on fracture of materials including natural structures like wood and bones.
He attempted to get a Russian patent for this in 1940 and it was refused with claims that it was the same as Foucault's method for glass sheet pulling.
[1][2] Stepanov was a keen sportsman, took part in alpine skiing, played tennis and was a referee at soccer.