Struvite as a Non-Equilibrium Solid Phase in Electrolytic Systems (Aqueous Media)

Abstract

Struvite (MgNH4 PO4 •6H2 O) is not the equilibrium solid phase when introduced into pure water or into an aqueous CO2 solution, with or without KOH added as the pH-modifying component. In some instances, the dissolution process consists of several steps where different solid phases are formed. It results from a simulating procedure, where the entire physicochemical knowledge on the system in question is involved in the iterative computer program. The results of calculations are put in context with formation of struvite renal calculi in urinary tracts.