Glass dissolution: testing and modeling for long-term behavior

The basic concepts of thermodynamics and kinetics are discussed in relationship to glass dissolution testing. While it seems like these subjects are too basic to be discussed in a journal article, it is often the case that we forget these concepts when planning and designing dissolution tests and interpreting the results that come from these tests. The possible connection between the composition of the dissolving glass and its long-term behavior is discussed. Results from a preliminary study suggest that the aluminum content of a glass is important to its long-term behavior. The formation of a zeolite can cause the glass dissolution rate to increase under certain conditions that can be modeled. Results indicate that complex glasses can be modeled with a glass containing as little as six components.