Publication Date
2024
Document Type
Thesis
Committee Members
Steven Higgins, Ph.D. (Advisor); Suzanne Lunsford, Ph.D. (Committee Member); Eric Fossum, Ph.D. (Committee Member)
Degree Name
Master of Science (MS)
Abstract
Previously, mineral nucleation was described by Classical Nucleation Theory (CNT), a theory based on the thermodynamic properties of bulk materials. However, an alternative model, known as the Prenucleation Cluster Pathway, has been increasingly used to describe nucleation of minerals. This model considers the presence of thermodynamically stable ion clusters known as “prenucleation clusters” (PNCs). In the present research, the nucleation mechanism of calcium fluoride was investigated to identify evidence of PNCs by means of the ion-selective electrode (ISE) method, where a CaCl2 solution was titrated into a NaF solution while investigating the effects of saturation level and the aqueous ratio of [Ca2+] to [F-]. It was concluded that the nucleation of fluorite is better supported by the Prenucleation Cluster Pathway rather than CNT. However further analysis of the accuracy of ion-pair formation constants is necessary in order to confirm.
Page Count
58
Department or Program
Department of Chemistry
Year Degree Awarded
2024
Copyright
Copyright 2024, all rights reserved. My ETD will be available under the "Fair Use" terms of copyright law.
