Effects of bismarck brown R on the growth rates of large and small potassium alum crystals

Abstract

Experimental data show that Bismarck Brown R, at a concentration of 10 ppm, substantially inhibited growth rates of potassium alum. All faces of the crystal were affected similarly, although there was some evidence that inhibition of the (111) faces was slightly greater. Growth rates of small crystals were inhibited more than larger crystals; this is explained using observations of growth rate dispersion believed due to variations in screw dislocation activities. Data showing time-dependent inhibition of growth was used to support the hypothesis that Bismarck Brown R forms complexes or chelates that completely inhibited growth.