Using reaction conditions far from equilibrium, we investigate the growth dynamics of hollow tubes formed from reactant-loaded seed crystals. The latter crystals are composed of alum and copper(II) sulfate. During the experiment, a single crystal (100 to 1000 mg in mass) is placed in a small volume of sodium silicate such that the formation of precipitation structures is monitored by a time-lapse camera. At low concentrations of sodium silicate (1.0 M), the tube growth is characteristic of the budding regime. For high concentrations of sodium silicate (6.25 M), tubes are directed by a single gas bubble. Using procedures of image acquisition and processing we are able to quantify the spatial and temporal dynamics. Systematic measurements include but are not limited to: tube radius, induction period, and growth velocity. This presentation will discuss both the qualitative and quantitative aspects of the distinct morphologies of precipitation tubes at reactive interfaces. Lastly, results from scanning electron microscopy and infrared spectroscopy will be presented.

Potential reactants toward the synthesis of precipitation tubes

255th National Meeting (2018)

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