Supersaturation is the driving force for crystallization from solution. Currently, there are no methods available for measurement of supersaturation based on changes in chemical potential. Rather, all current techniques rely on mass concentration measurements which lack the sensitivity for process control. The proposed research introduces the concept of an environmentally sensitive fluorescent probe molecule for sensing of supersaturation. The technique holds the promise for significantly greater sensitivity than mass based techniques and success in the research program should lead to development of a commercial sensor.
Anticipated Results:This project will establish the feasibility of a novel, fluorescence based sensor for supersaturation monitoring during crystallization from solution.
