Sonocrystallization: The End of Empiricism?

Abstract

Among many attractive effects on physicochemical processes; one of the most promising applications of power ultrasound concerns crystallization. This paper is a review of the previous work on sonocrystallization. Ultrasound has been used in crystallization to initiate primary nucleation by narrowing the metastable zone width. It influences secondary nucleation and crystal growth. It has beneficial effects on crystal habit and crystal size distribution. It can reduce or modify agglomeration and the subsequent liquid inclusions and improve product handling. A description of the available equipment will be given. Finally, from the previous work and the experience gained, the possible future developments in sonocrystallization will be examined.