FORCED HYDROLYSIS OF IN(OH)(3) - COMPARISON OF MODEL WITH EXPERIMENTS

This paper presents a theory that links solution complexation equilibr ia with a model for precipitation predicting the particle size distrib ution. This model uses classical nucleation theory and growth rates by various rate limiting steps for the growth of the crystals. This mode l is compared to forced hydrolysis experiments where dilute Indium nit rate solutions, acidified with nitric acid, were heated to 80 degrees C. The experiments produced cubic particles of Indium hydroxide. The e xperiments were monitored for temperature, pH, turbidity, indium conce ntration in solution and particle size distribution, all as a function of time for comparison with this model. The model gives an accurate p rediction of the evolution of the particle size distribution, pH, turb idity, and indium concentration with time.