Electron Microscopic Study of Dissolution Morphology of Lithium Fluoride Surfaces

Abstract

The dislocation etch pits formed on the cleavage surfaces of lithium fluoride in an aqueous solution containing varying concentrations of ferric ions are investigated by electron microscopy. The results obtained reveal the powerful influence of the inhibitor in the stabilisation of kinks and macroledges. There is some evidence for the nucleation of disso­lution at imperfections other than the dislocations. Dissolution spirals are observed in some cases suggesting the presence of helical dislocations in lithium fluoride.