Etch pit coalescence, surface area, and overall mineral dissolution rates

A simple computer model for the dissolution kinetics of crystalline matter governed by etch-pit formation predicts different development, paths, and states for geometric, total (BET), and reactive surface area during the dissolution process. The model also explores the dynamics of the dissolution rate of a given model crystal surface as a function of the development of surface area. Because the surface area term is used in the normalization of bulk dissolution rates, results of this normalization reflect the large differences explored. Based on this evaluation, we discuss the application of the diversely defined surface area terms. In the light of this discussion, the likelihood of an unambiguous definition or application of reactive surface area is problematic.