Techniques for analyzing the early stages of crystallization reactions

This paper will-in a semi-review-like form-describe the problems in analyzi ng nucleation reactions, and approaches towards a solution of these problem s. Attempts to pinpoint the nucleation event can start from the solution st ate, and the development of precursors for the solid state can be traced wi th mass spectrometry. Alternatively, one can try to obtain information on e ver earlier stages of the solids formation itself, thus approaching the nuc leation event from the side of the solid already formed. A highly suitable tool for this purpose is a tubular reactor, where crystallization reactions can be carried out continuously. (C) 2001 Editions scientifiques et medica les Elsevier SAS. All rights reserved.