Calcium Carbonate Dissolution Rate in Limestone Contactors

摘要

The rate of carbonate mineral dissolution from limestone was studied using arotating disk apparatus and samples of limestone of varied composition. The purpose of this study was to determine the effect of limestone composition on the kinetics of carbonate mineral dissolution. The results are needed to improve the relationships used to design limestone contactors for long term operation. The stone samples with the highest calcite content and lowest dolomite content had the highest initial rates of dissolution. The overall dissolution rate constant decreased as the amount of calcium dissolved from the surface of the stone increased. Analysis of several stone surfaces indicated that a residue layer of aluminum, silicon and iron formed as calcium dissolved.