Quantification of dissolution/growth processes at the fluid-mineral interface: An integrated approach

GEOC 168

Andreas Luttge, Rolf S. Arvidson, Thomas A. Fewless, Kevin J. Davis, Li Zhang, Mikala S. Beig, Michael D. Vinson, and Dale S. Sawyer. Department of Earth Science, Rice University, 6100 Main Street, Houston, TX 77005
Direct observations and measurements of mineral surfaces and fluid/solid interfaces are a prerequisite for our ability to quantify dissolution and growth and to develop an improved fundamental understanding of the governing processes. Ideally, these measurements would be performed over a large range of scales, both, in space and time. This task, however, has proven to be difficult often causing problems in bringing together macroscopic and microscopic observations. However, recent interest in the fate and persistence of nanoparticles in the environment further necessitates bridging the length scale. Here, we present results of a comprehensive approach that integrates atomic force microscopy, super-resolution vertical scanning interferometry and computer simulations of molecular processes, i.e., ab initio, DFT, and Monte Carlo techniques. The combination of these methods allows new insight in the mechanism and kinetics of mineral dissolution and growth processes.