The objective of this research is to characterize the nature of cluster formation in supersaturated molybdate solutions, principally those solutions used to prepare molybdate catalysts. The study is concerned with the effects of concentration, pH and impurities on the degree to which molybdate clusters form and on the size which they achieve. Raman spectroscopy and light scattering techniques will be refined and developed to obtain clustering information. In addition, the analyses of concentration gradients which develop in supersaturated solutions subjected to a force field will also be used to characterize cluster formation. The results of this research will contribute to a better understanding of crystal nucleation and growth from solution as well as contribute to the understanding of the effect of solution conditions on the effectiveness of molybdate catalysts produced from such solutions.
