Dissolution of metal oxides

The factors that influence metal oxide solubility in aqueous media (both thermodynamic and kinetic) are analyzed. Either surface reactions or diffusion to or from solution bulk may control the rate. In the former case, solution and solid phase variables are of importance; solid state variables of interest are electronic structure and defects structure and density. Solution variables to be considered are pH, complexing agents and surfactants. The electrochemical nature of the surface reactions make the electrical properties of the interface crucial in determining dissolution behaviour