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Updated: Feb 10, 2026

A Method for Studying the Temperature Dependence of Dynamic Fracture and Fragmentation
Published on: June 28, 2015
Solid dissolution in a fluid solvent is characterized by the interplay of surface area-dependent diffusion and
R J Seager1, Andrew J Acevedo1, Fabian Spill2,3,4
1Department of Biomedical Engineering, Boston University, Boston, MA, 02215, USA.
This study introduces a novel mathematical model for solid dissolution, integrating surface area-dependent mass removal and particle fragmentation. The model quantizes the interaction between these processes to optimize dissolution rates.
Area of Science:
- Pharmaceutical research
- Medicine
- Digestive physiology
- Engineering design
Background:
- Dissolution and fragmentation are critical processes occurring simultaneously in various scientific fields.
- The interplay between dissolution and fragmentation and its impact on overall dissolution kinetics remains poorly understood.
- Existing models do not fully capture the combined effects of mass removal and physical fragmentation.
Purpose of the Study:
- To develop a novel mathematical model for dissolution that incorporates both surface area-dependent mass removal and particle fragmentation.
- To quantify the interactive effects of dissolution and fragmentation on the overall process.
- To identify optimal conditions for rapid solid dissolution in liquid solvents.
Main Methods:
- Developed a mathematical model based on partial differential equations.
- Incorporated physical laws governing surface area-dependent diffusive mass removal.
- Included physical fragmentation of solid particles as a key process.
Main Results:
- Successfully quantified the interplay between dissolution and fragmentation.
- Identified optimal conditions for enhanced solid dissolution rates.
- Reproduced experimentally observed phenomena and simulated diverse dissolution conditions.
- Provided new insights into the kinetics of dissolution.
Conclusions:
- The developed mathematical model offers a comprehensive approach to understanding dissolution.
- The model can predict and optimize dissolution processes for various applications.
- It serves as a valuable tool for aiding experimental design and device optimization.
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