The aqueous solution chemistry of germanium under conditions of environmental and biological interest: Inorganic ligands

Abstract

Available equilibrium constant data for reactions of germanium with inorganic ligands in aqueous solution have been critically evaluated. Even though the relevant literature is sparse and mostly rather old, we have established a working thermodynamic description of germanium in aqueous, multicomponent media for its most important interactions with inorganic ligands. These thermodynamic parameters will be useful in environmental and (eco)toxicology studies. However, within the limitations of the presently available literature, significant uncertainties are inescapable. The implications for thermodynamic modelling in general are far-reaching.