In-situ, real time AFM observations of smectite dissolution under high pH conditions

Abstract

In order to understand the dissolution kinetics and mechanism of smectite under high pH conditions, we done in-situ, real time AFM observations of smectite dissolution. In AFM scanning in solutions, we are careful about some conditions such as scanning method, PEI coating, and flow rate of solution. The dissolution of smectite at room temperature occurs only on the edge surface of the particle. The dissolution front is retreated at the constant rate. Therefore, The rate constant normalized by the edge surface area than by total surface area is suitable and essential to the dissolution rate of smectite.