[Crystallization of calcium phosphate in the presence of magnesium]

Formation and evolution of calcium phosphates are investigated, at 37 degrees C, in urine and aqueous solutions whose concentrations in calcium and magnesium are close to those of urine. Although the solutions are supersaturated with respect to all calcium phosphates, only an amorphous phase (ACP) and brushite (B) precipitate at time zero. Later on, ACP transforms either into whitlockite (W) or into apatite (HAP) depending on the solution composition. Phase transformations are discussed in terms of supersaturation, parameter which includes concentrations and pH. It is also shown that magnesium is a powerful inhibitor of the evolution towards HAP.